Phl Volcanoes trounce UAE, 24-8

MANILA, Philippines - Under threat of being eased out of the HSBC Asian 5 Nations Top 5 division, the Philippine Volcanoes finally exploded, hammering out a 24-8 victory over United Arab Emirates to stay in the elite group before a record crowd at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium late Saturday night.

The Volcanoes went charging from the get-go in a determined bid to remain in the Elite Division. They were aptly rewarded with four tries against only one for UAE en route to the huge victory that delighted 5,700 supporters – an all-time high for a rugby game in the country.

The win was the first for the debuting Filipinos after bowing to champion Japan (0-121), Hong Kong (20-59), and Korea (19-62) in the top-flight of Asian rugby. But it was enough to secure them a coveted spot and consequently remain in the Top 5 next year, a qualifying event for the Rugby World Cup 2015.

“It’s massive,” said Matt Saunders of the win. “We didn’t want to be relegated so this victory was very important for us and we showed that Filipinos can play rugby and we’re in the Top 5 of Asia.”

“We couldn’t imagine getting relegated so we had to win this game but next year is going to be another tournament. We know what to expect now, against Japan, Hong Kong, and Korea so hopefully, we’re going to see more wins and get in the top and put ourselves in position for the World Cup,” said Graeme Hagan.

The Volcanoes opened scoring via Chris Hatch’s try in the 10th minute off a scrum. Gareth Holgate followed it up with his own try four minutes later, which was successfully converted by Alex Aronson as the Volcanoes took a 12-0 lead and Rizal erupted in delight.

UAE scored on a pushover try late in the first half as the Arab team closed in 12-5 at the break. The visitors kept pressing and converted a penalty in the 41st minute to cut the Philippine lead to four.

But the Volcanoes didn’t waver. After getting slapped a yellow card and watching helplessly in the penalty box, Hagan returned to action and skillfully translated a nice delivery from Jake Letts into a clutch try, which Aronson once again converted for a 19-5 tear with 20 minutes left.

Not even a 10-minute power outage at the Rizal football stadium could hamper the local juggernaut as Saunders sneaked past the defenders to scoot home as the band in the stands played celebratory music and supporters let rain confetti.

“We didn’t do anything special. It’s just about doing what we’re working on and doing it better and for longer,” said Philippine coach Jarred Hodges.