Global FC draws Malaysian side

MANILA, Philippines - A defiant Global FC forced Malaysia FA Cup titlist Pahang FA to a scoreless draw to earn its first-ever point in an Asian competition Wednesday night in the AFC Cup at Stadium Darul Makmur in Malaysia.

Determined to bounce back from its 1-6 defeat to South China FA of Hong Kong in the opener of Group G last month, the “People’s Club” showed spunk in the away match and fought hard against the hosts who couldn’t punch through against the shorthanded but unfazed Filipinos.

“We’re very happy and we showed that we can play at this level,” said Global coach Dan Padernal, whose team achieved the result despite a depleted lineup.

“It was tough for us because we only traveled with 15 players, and due to injuries we only had two subs, but the players refused to give up. The draw gives us confidence going forward in this tournament,” he added.

Global, the first Phl club to qualify for the AFC Cup, will next play Yadanarbon in Myanmar on Mar. 18. Yadanarbon runs fourth in the group after losing to South China, 1-3, for its second straight loss.

Defender Amani Aguinaldo will miss out on the action in Myanmar, having been sent off late in the Pahang game.

“It’s even more difficult for us in the next game, but we will try to prepare well,” said Padernal.

Third goalkeeper Jun Jun Badelic impressed for the visitors who paraded a relatively young crew averaging 22, keeping the relentless Pahang booters at bay for the entire game.