28 February 2011

Simon Greatwich back for Azkals-Mongolia match

Cedelf P. Tupas


Midfielder Simon Greatwich is expected to be back for the second leg of the Philippines’ AFC Challenge Cup qualifying series against Mongolia on March 15 in Ulan Bator.

The 22-year-old Filipino-British standout, who came in as a halftime substitute in the 2-nil first leg victory at the Panaad in Bacolod last Feb. 9, said yesterday that he may be available as early as a week before the showdown with the Mongolians.


Greatwich said he wants to join the team for training camp in the Japan Football Association facility, located just outside Tokyo.

“I’m still hoping I could join the camp,” said Greatwich, a varsity player of Hartwick College in New York, who made an impact on attack in the second half against Mongolia, nearly scoring on an overhead kick.

Greatwich’s availability comes as a boost for the Azkals, considering that his older brother, Chris, and defender Rob Gier will miss the match.

Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge had earlier ruled himself out of the Mongolia game and may join the team if it progresses to the group qualifying tournament in Myanmar. Expected to start in his place is Eduard Sacapano.

inquirer.net

6 comments:

  1. What about Jonsson? Will he be available?

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  2. Good news! I think Simon gave a strong performance in the Bacolod leg and the Azkals can surely use him in Mongolia.

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  3. “I’m still hoping I could join the camp,” said Greatwich" that dont really sounds like a confirmation ?

    Not heard anything about Jonsson ...

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  4. I think that it means that he might make it to the training camp because he may be available a week before the match. But if not, he will just go straight to the match as in the case of De Jong and Sabio.

    But I have to say that I miss Chris and his ability to appear out of nowhere just in time to make a goal, or to pass the ball to someone who can make the goal.

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  5. Simon was very impressive when he came in at halftime. He gave the team a boost offensively and his passing was very solid. I like what he gives to the team and hopefully he can get with the team as soon as possible. You can see he has got that instinct for goal just like Peter.

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  6. Sun Star Bacolod reported today that Simon Greatwich will not play in Mongolia

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