MANILA – The Philippine Women’s National Ice Hockey team ruled the 2019 IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia Division 1 after beating the United Arab Emirates in the finals, 2-1, on Saturday at the Abu Dhabi Arena in the United Arab Emirates.
The championship was the first for the Philippines’ women’s ice hockey team after settling for a second runner-up finish during last year’s edition of the competition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Bianca Cuevas opened the scoring for the Philippines just 57 seconds into the match as she converted past the defense after she was found unmarked by teammate Kyla Herbolario.
UAE became aggressive on offense but Philippine goalie Rosalyn Lim was there to prevent the former’s seven attempts. Philippines doubled the edge as Danielle Imperial slotted the puck past UAE tender Fatima Karashi.
The UAE was able to cut into the Philippines’ deficit just minutes before the final buzzer as Khulood Shugaa sent the puck to Dana Alhosani who put it at the back of the net past Lim’s defense.
The finals win over UAE completed Team Philippines’ sweep of the competition after opening with a 15-0 rout over Kuwait before following it up with a 5-0 shut out over India.
Cuevas, last year’s Most Valuable Player awardee, was adjudged the Best Forward of the tournament. The Philippines can take their mettle in the Top Division of the CCOA for next year after their title win./PN
