The 54-year reign of Singapore in 2019 Southeast Asian Games Waterpolo has ended. And it was host Philippines that made sure it happened.
The Philippine Men’s National Waterpolo Team kept their own podium hopes alive with a stunning 6-6 draw of the ASEAN kings, Friday at the NCC Aquatics Center.
Knotted at 5-all with 5:02 left, Juan Paolo Serrano was able to draw a penalty on Jian Koh. Serrano calmly threw in the penalty goal for the lead.
Wen Zhe Goh was able to get the point back after a penalty goal of his own coming off a Romark Belo foul with 1:13 left.
A defensive stand by the Philippines to close out the game sealed at least a bronze in the regional meet.
The Philippines sits at second with a 1-0-2 record while Singapore is still in danger of missing out on the podium with a 1-1-1 slate — a virtual tie with Thailand (1-2).
The Nationals held a surprising 5-2 lead midway through the third canto with goals coming from Aljon Salonga, Vincent Sicat, Adan Gonzales, Mummar Almara, and Roy Canete.
Indonesia locked in gold with a 3-0-1 record.
A Philippine win over Malaysia on Sunday, December 1 will seal silver, ending the country’s eight-year medal drought in the event.
