Greece (7) v (2) Philippines
Greece (7) v (2) Phillipines
By Tim Beissmann
Two wins from their opening two matches have put the Greeks in an accommanding position atop Group H, the latest a 7-2 victory over the Philippines.
The Philippines came out with all the energy and enthusiasm, demonstrated by a brilliant save from keeper Marlon Lagundino and blistering pace in the back half from Jay De Jesus.
But it was the Greeks who put the first score on the board, through their super striker Sokratis Fakaros, who has been among the most dangerous players of the tournament.
An instant riposte by Kevin Logioy drew the scores level, but the goal-for-goal pattern continued as the ball miraculously pin-balled through for Greece.
De Jesus' busy desperation was rewarded late in the half when he caught the Greek keeper out of position, but it was the big Euro striker Vasileios Bourgazas who produced the match highlight.
He set up a goal using his great vision and scored one of his own off the outside of his boot to go into the break 4-2.
The offensive pressure of Logioy was immense in the opening stages of the second half, as he tried to force his country back into the game.
But two goals to Greek substitute Ioannis Flytzanis just off the bench sewed the game up for Greece, who held on after the Philippinos controlled possession late in the piece.
Photos: Photoworx