The Philippine women’s national lacrosse team made a strong debut in the Asia Pacific Women’s Lacrosse Championship, securing a bronze medal with a commanding 18-6 victory over Chinese Taipei on Saturday at the Sunshine Coast Stadium in Queensland, Australia.
The Nationals rebounded impressively after consecutive losses to Australia (14-5) in the pool phase and Japan (13-4) in the semifinals. The bronze-medal finish also serves as a stepping stone for their first-ever appearance in the World Championships next year.
“This is absolutely everything. From the very start of the tournament to the very end, we stuck together. We adapted, adjusted, and this means so much for our country,” said playing coach Steph Lazo.
“This is just the beginning. We truly believe in the process, we believe in each other, and this is just the start of the future for Philippine women’s lacrosse,” she added.
Lazo and the team set the tone early, scoring four unanswered goals within the first quarter. Their aggressive offensive pressure and capitalization on Taiwanese infractions near the fan quickly established their dominance.
Chinese Taipei briefly closed the gap to 5-3 with five minutes left in the first half, but Ria Lagdameo restored the Nationals’ three-goal advantage with her second score of the match. Her swift run into the semicircle and perfectly timed shot highlighted the Filipinas’ relentless determination.
The Philippines pulled away in the third period with a 6-1 run, extending their lead to 12-4 and effectively putting the game out of reach. The Nationals maintained their defensive and offensive intensity through to the final whistle.
Lazo led the charge with five goals, while Sarah Nelson contributed two goals and an assist.
Lagdameo added two goals of her own, with Kalena Johnson and Nia Carrera also netting two goals each.
Eight other Filipinas registered at least a point in the match.
For Chinese Taipei, Tabitha Ge-Xin Goon stood out with four points, including two goals and two assists.
Later in the day, Australia and Japan, both of whom have qualified for this year’s World Games Women’s Sixes tournament, will face off for the gold medal.
