Goal boosts Phil’s confidence

BANGKOK – After being practically a non-factor in the first two games, Azkals ace striker Phil Younghusband found his mark in their 2-0 win over Myanmar for the confidence boost that could serve him well going into the semifinal round.

“As a striker, you score goals, you get confidence,” Younghusband said after finding the back of the net in a Phl uniform for the 28th time overall.

“For me on a personal level, it’s good to get that goal but I’m just happy to make it to the semis. My confidence will come from that goal,” he added.

Younghusband started for the Azkals in a losing 1-2 game to Thailand but had to go to the sidelines for a good 10 minutes to get a pair of cuts treated after getting a headbutt and a flailing elbow against the rough hosts. He was replaced after the half.

He played more minutes in their succeeding 1-0 win over Vietnam, but missed a couple of scoring chances.

And then Myanmar.

“I feel I was tracking back. Coach (Michael Weiss) helped me and everything paid off,” Younghusband said.

“Phil had a difficult past two games,” Weiss said, for his part. “We’re talking ahead of the match and I felt I have to give him support and he brilliantly paid it back. (He played a) super match. Now we’ll see the real Phil Younghusband (in the semis).”

Younghusband’s scoring exploit was complemented by Angel Guirado, who himself fired one in three minutes into added time.

“Angel is always a threat. Played well for the team. Not so much on dribbling efforts, which are good at times . He will be a striking force in the next game,” said Weiss.

And yes, the two are connecting better.

“As you can see, the chemistry between Phil and Angel has already somehow improved so it will be good to see them play together again in the semis,” said team manager Dan Palami.