MANILA – The Philippine Malditas fell short of a bronze medal finish following a close 2-1 defeat to Myanmar in the 30th Southeast Asian Games women’s football bronze medal match at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
With the heartbreaking come-from-behind defeat, the national women’s football team extended its medal drought in the SEA Games to 34 years.
After a scoreless opening half, the Malditas claimed a 1-0 advantage early in the second half with Quinley Quezada’s close-range conversion at the 57th minute. The lead was nearly doubled but Sarina Bolden’s hit was ruled as offside.
Myanmar was able to tie the score at 1-all with Myanmar’s substitute July Kyaw taking advantage of Malditas goalkeeper Inna Palacios’ off-guard to convert a header at the 78th minute.
Two minutes later, Myanmar snatched the one goal edge with Yee Yee Oo hitting one from close range. The Filipinas tried hard to mount a comeback, but could not find a decent attempt.
Vietnam emerged as women’s football champion after defeating Thailand in the gold medal match, 1-0. Pham Hai Yen provided the game-winning goal for the six-time champions Vietnam./PN
