Polo bets keep hope afloat, trounce Viets

LOS BAÑOS — The Philippines blanked Vietnam in the last two periods and coasted to a 13-3 rout last night to keep its slim hopes alive for a gold medal finish in the water polo competitions of the 23rd Southeast Asian Games at the Trace Aquatics Center here.

The Nationals took charge right in the first quarter that saw them seize a 4-1 lead then cruised to the trouble-free win, their second straight and third overall against one loss.

Pacesetting Singapore remained unbeaten as it whitewashed Thailand, 12-3, while Indonesia downed Malaysia, 6-4, in the other matches.

The Philippines could still go for the gold if it beats Malaysia today and hope the Singaporeans drop their final match against Vietnam. If RP and Singapore, which won the gold in Vietnam two years ago, end up with identical 4-1 win-loss cards, the tie will be decided by a quotient system.

Monsueto Pelenio was in his elements again as he led the host’s scoring spree with four goals, that proved enough to beat the entire Vietnam squad.

"We are just hoping for the best tomorrow (today)," said national coach Rey Galang.

The Philippines thus remained in second place with 3-1 behind Singapore heading to its final game against Malaysia today.

Should Singapore sweep the championship, the Filipinos, bronze medallists in the last SEAG in Vietnam, will settle for the silver medal finish.

"We will give our very best against Malaysia and whatever happens to Singapore, I’m satisfied with the performance of our water polo players," said national swimming president Mark Joseph, adding that a second place finish will qualify the Philippines to the Asian Games in Doha next year.

Like in their 10-2 trashing of the Thais the other night, the Filipinos were unforgiving in their defense as they held the Viets without a goal in the last 14 minutes of play, thanks again to goalie Alan Payawal who foiled every opponents attempt.