BACOLOD CITY , Philippines – The Azkals will be kept away from adoring fans from now ‘til game time.
Philippine Azkals coach Michael Weiss and the coaching staff have virtually placed the team under quarantine at their designated billeting area to try to shield them from unnecessary distraction only two days before their AFC Challenge Cup match with Mongolia.
Weiss said under this measure, the much sought-after Azkals will only be leaving their quarters for official training sessions. No more team appearances in other functions that could zap up their energy. No more hangers-on, as well.
“In the first hotel we stayed in, there was too much distraction. Everytime you go to the lift, 20 people will come up and ask for autographs or pictures,” said the German mentor who was forced to transfer the in-demand Azkals to another quarters.
“You can do this for a certain period of time but the closer the match, the more we have to be focused, take our rest, sleep, and reflect on what’s supposed to happen on the pitch and not get distracted by screaming girls, however nice that might be,” he added.
Limiting the Azkals’ movements to the bare essentials is a must if they need to get past the Mongolian side, Weiss explained.
“It has to be done. We have to be 100 percent fit from the soul, mind and physical condition so the closer we get to the match, the more we should be amongst ourselves, focus and develop this tunnel vision,” he said.
Weiss added that the homestretch of camp will center on training, two hours of rest and recreation, and eating. “But we won’t accept invitations anymore from outside so for the last two days we would be tight.”
He maintained that this is no R&R gig. “It’s not a holiday or vacation recreation camp, it’s preparation for a very serious match and we’re on the verge of bringing Philippines up to the landmark of football and that is the start of getting more professional.”
Weiss named Aly Borromeo, Eduard Sacapano, Neil Etheridge, Anton del Rosario, Jerry Barbaso, Kim Relucio, Joebel Bermejo, Rob Gier, Ray Jonnson, Nestorio Margarse, Emilio Caligdong, Simon Greatwich, Peter Jaugan, Mark Ferrer, James Younghusband, Reymark Palmes, Jason de Jong, Patrick Hinrichsen, Jason Sabio, Phil Younghusband, and Ian Araneta as Phl’s final lineup for the match.