Schrock sparks Azkals fightback

MANILA, Philippines - A non-factor in the first game and absent in the second one due to injury, Fil-German Stephan Schrock announced he’s truly back as he provided a bright spot in the Azkals’ gloomy 1-5 loss to Uzbekistan.

Schrock checked in for starter Iaian Ramsay at the start of the second half and added energy into the side, spiking his effort with a long freekick that turned out Phl’s lone goal against the rampaging White Wolves.

“We wanted a player who can work, take the risk in the game, and Stephan gave us that when he came in. He was dangerous and he scored the goal. He did a good job,” said coach Thomas Dooley.

Schrock said he didn’t mind coming off the bench if Dooley saw fit.

“As an athlete you always want to start, you don’t want to be a backup. But Misagh (Bahadoran) did a great job in the first two games. He and (Javier) Patino, all those guys are very much deserving to play. That’s why I’m totally okay with the decision of coach (on who to start),” said Schrock.

“We’re a team, all on one page so it doesn’t matter who starts or not,” he added.

Schrock started in the Azkals’ 2-1 opening win over Bahrain but limped out in the 23rd minute. The knee injury forced him to sit out Phl’s succeeding 2-0 victory over Yemen.