Philippines cops silver in Women's Asia & Oceania ice hockey tilt

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine women’s ice hockey team fell a victory short of clinching the gold medal in their first tournament back, finishing second behind Iran in the 2024 IIHF Women’s Asia & Oceania Cup in Kyrgyzstan last weekend.

Played in a round-robin format, the Philippines fell in the virtual championship game against Iran, 0-4, to settle for the bridesmaid finish at Bishkek Arena on Saturday evening.

Despite missing the top award, the Philippines still showed out in their first taste of action since the pandemic stalled their competitions. Back in 2019, the Philippines ruled Division 1 of the same event — then called the Challenge Cup of Asia.

Prior to their loss in the final, the Philippines swept their first three assignments, ending up behind Iran’s perfect 4-0 record with their 3-1 slate.

The United Arab Emirates, which the Philippines beat 3-2, ended up with the bronze medal.

Despite the loss, the Philippines did limit Iran to their lowest goal-scoring output of the tournament. Previously, the smallest margin of victory for the Iranians was 6-0.

Filipina goalkeeper Rosalyn Lim made 34 saves out of Iran’s 38 attempts on goal to finish with the respectable scoreline.