Malawi (4) v (3) Philippines

By Tim Beissmann

Both looking for their first wins of the new Group H competition, it was Malawi who stole it from the Philippines 4-3 in an absolute nail-biter.

The match started poorly for the Philippines who were unlucky to concede an own goal after Rondolf Longgakit tackled desperately in defence.

Both teams were happy to get down and dirty on the Yarra Pitch, all players diving and sliding much to the crowd's delight.

Jay De Jesus, who has become a crowd favourite for his pace and classy footwork, continued to set up goals for his countrymen early but the Malawian keeper Frecha Bottom Chirwa was up to the challenge.

De Jesus remained busy across the pitch and his effort was rewarded in the fourth minute when he made something out of nothing to squeeze through two rapid-fire goals and put his team in the lead.

Tisadane Bokosi was the go-to player in attack for Malawi and looked dangerous on many occasions.

Philippine keeper Marlon Lagundino used the walls well on roll-ins, but a late interception resulted in a fist-pumping goal to Sylus Otis Liwindo, tying the scores at 2-2 going into the break.

Chirwa spent the opening minutes of the second half rejecting flying attempts from the Philippines, each one striking harder than the last.

De Jesus made it a hat-trick when he broke a four minute deadlock to put his side ahead, but when Liwindo replied soon after the crowd sensed an upset was on the cards.

Three tense minutes went by with both teams struggling to dominate.

Enter Sylus Otis Liwindo. The tall Malawian striker fired, and with five seconds to go clipped the body of a Philippino defender and dropped it in the back of the net.

The referees whistle sounded heart-break for the Philippines and ecstasy for Malawi, who gathered together in the middle of the pitch for a song, dance and embrace.

Photos: Photoworx