The Philippines lost the battle for the bronze medal in the Men’s Floorball event of the 30th Southeast Asian Games after suffering a harsh 4-7 defeat in the hands of Malaysia Sunday at the UP College of Human Kinetics Gym.
The Filipinos were actually in the driver’s seat before the end of the opening period. But the Malaysians found their groove, scoring three consecutive goals to take a 4-2 lead in the next frame and never looking back.
The hosts finished fourth with a 2-0-3 win-tie-loss record while Malaysia snared the bronze once more. Their finishes are similar to the 2015 edition of the regional biennial meet in Singapore where the sport debuted in the SEA Games.
“We didn’t have the energy enough. They were really having a fast-paced game. They’re really good,” lamented Ryan Hallden, as the Philippines failed to emulate its 8-7 win over the very same opponent just two days ago.
The Philippines drew first blood just six minutes into the match thanks to Christian Schoultze. Malaysia equalized nine minutes later, but Schoultze helped regained the lead after setting up Aristeo Perol in the 18th minute.
But just when the momentum seemed to be on the Filipinos’ side, the Malaysians countered. Eugene Lai and Tristan Dass linked up for three straight goals to give their side a 4-2 lead in the 29th minute.
Fredrik Dahmen managed to stop the bleeding for the Philippines, 3-4, but it proved to be too late for the hosts. Malaysia nailed three straight goals once behind Zachary Yung, Fabian Fee, and Faris Maznan to put the game away.
“We’re trying to really push hard simula pa lang ng period hanggang pagpasok ng second period, pero high-risk din talaga — karamihan ng goals nila from counterattacks,” said playing Philippine Floorball Association president Ralph Ramos.
Reigning SEAG floorball kings Singapore and Thailand are fighting for the gold medal as of this posting.
