BY CYRUS M. GARDE
BACOLOD City – The match between Philippine representative, Ceres-La Salle Football Club and Rimyongsu Sports Club of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) ended in a two-all draw at the opening of the AFC President’s Cup Group B Qualifiers at the Panaad Park and Stadium here.
Turkmenistan, on the other hand, defeated Tatung of Chinese Taipei, 2-0.
Ali Go, team manager of the Philippine team, was quick to say it was good playing against the champion team from Korea (that played in the 2010 World Cup).
The draw against the North Koreans was a result of good training, high level of skills, and a game plan that was executed well by the players, Go added.
Filipino-Spanish player Juani Guirado opened in the10th minute off the penalty just outside the box, bringing the full packed stadium to a roar.
Rimyongsu squad’s Ri Kwang Hyok bounced back in the 39th minute for the goal’s mouth to end the first half, one-all.
Filipino-German Patrick Reichelt showed his football skills and scored Ceres’ second goal in the 49th minute. But Hyok connected again in the 60th minute to equalize the score.
Ceres-La Salle will face Chinese Taipei tonight and Turkmenistan, the top seed in the group, on Saturday at 5 p.m.
A win against Chinese Taipei or against Turkmenistan will qualify Ceres FC in the finals.
Rimyongsu head coach Jo Man Ho credited Ceres for playing well.
Ceres coach Cha Soung Yooung said his team played well despite the draw and promised to play better.
Meanwhile, Turkmenistan HTTU defeated |Chinese Taipei, 2-0 in their own match./PN
