Bahadoran stars as PH futsal squad shutsout Black Knights FC

By Celest R. Flores
INQUIRER.net


MANILA, Philippines�Displaying fine footwork and sheer speed, the Philippine men�s futsal squad blanked visiting Black Knights FC from Australia, 3-0, in friendly match Monday at the Ninoy Aquino stadium.

Fil-Iranian Misagh Bahadoran, who is also a member of the national football team, starred in the victory for his relentless attacks, for which he was rewarded in the 39th minute.

After close misses, Bahadoran finally connected on a free kick to double the lead, 2-0, even as he assisted Eddie Mallari in the ninth minute with a slick pass for the opening point.

In the 43rd minute, Sajad Khodarami blizted all the way for the country�s final goal.

National team head coach Esmael Sedigh, though, felt the squad�known as the Philippine Eagles�could have scored at least 7-8 goals with the way they played.

The Philippines, a potent mix of locals and Fil-foreigners, could have padded onto the lead with its countless attempts but lacked consistency in finishing.

Keeper Francis Paranpan also stood his ground in the face of the Black Knights� wave of attacks with a brilliant save after another.

One of Paranpan�s notable saves was when he thwarted a stunning header by Australia�s Mitomo Somehara early in the match.

The friendly match is part of the squad�s build-up for the 2011 Southeast Asian Games in November.

Earlier, the Philippine women�s futsal team also shut out the WNCAA All-Stars in an exhibition match with the same score.

Jocelyn Guico, Richelle Placencio and Honey Thomason filled the score sheet for the Philippine side.

inquirer.net