Morallo forces tie with Laos in futsal

MANILA, Philippines - Jake Morallo scored on a late penalty as the Philippines salvaged a 4-4 draw with Laos at the start of the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Futsal Championship Friday night at Stadium Melawati in Shah Alam, Malaysia.

Morallo’s well-placed spot-kick near the end of the fast-paced match secured one point for the Muzang, who had a see-saw opening battle with the Laotians in Group B.

The Muzang drew first blood just four minutes in, with Michael Mari Reyes smashing it home, then Vilakone Vannayon equalized just two minutes later. The Filipinos retook the upperhand via Patrick Sacobo’s 12th minute connection but Soulichanh Phasawaeng made it a 2-2 match heading into the halftime.

Panida Sinthapaseuth struck to give Laos a 3-2 buffer after restart but Phl evened things out once more as Tating Pasilan knocked down a superb strike. Phasawaeng scored his second goal at the 33rd for a 4-3 count as Laos appeared on its way to getting the full points.

Then the Muzang were awarded a penalty and Morallo cashed in to force a draw.

Phl and Laos trail powerhouse Vietnam (3 points) in the Group B table. 

The Vietnamese overwhelmed Myanmar, 6-1,  with Ngo Ngoc Son (11’), Le Quoc Nam (12’), Tran Long Vu (14’), Thai Huy (17’) and Ly Kanh Hung (34’) taking turns scoring. Pyaeo Phyo Maung (21’) prevented a complete shutout for the Burmese.

The Muzang battle defending titlist Thailand next.