Philippines (13) v (3) Sweden

By Finn Bradshaw

LED by a nine-goal haul from Jay-R de Jesus, the Philippines defeated Sweden 13-3 to claim their first victory in the Second Round.

In the sweltering heat on Melbourne Pitch, the Filipinos were too fast and skilful for the Swedes to handle.

Sweden made the most of their size advantage over the Asian team early, keeping the score knotted at 2-2 mid-way through the first half thanks to a brace from Jim Nygaard.

But then de Jesus stepped it up a gear, scoring eight of the next nine goals in the match.

The Philippines' game plan is built around the strong midfield work of Jeffrey Solis and Kevin Logioy, allowing de Jesus to wreak havoc in the front half.

The best of de Jesus' huge haul was a scorcher from the half way line with the outside of his foot, which left Sweden's fill-in keeper with no chance.

Not to be outdone, Logioy scored with a screamer of a volley into the top left-hand corner late in the game to put icing on the win.

The win lifts the Philippines to fourth in Group H, and puts their goal difference into the positive. Sweden now anchors the group, having failed to win a game in the Second Round.

Photos: Photoworx