Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 11) – Scott Woods played the hero for the Azkals Development Team as they successfully salvaged a 1-1 stalemate against Stallion Laguna FC in the Copa Paulino Alcantara 2022 on Monday at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.
Woods was put on the spot in the 87th minute after Stallion standout Griffin McDaniel committed a hard foul on the attacking Dennis Chung in the right flank.
The free kick was assigned to Woods, who effortlessly sent the ball into the net, as Stallion goalkeeper Hayeson Pepito could only manage to look on.
“It was quite close to the goal, so I just saw the left side open and I just hit it hard like I do in training all the time,” Woods said.
The ADT booters attempted more shots, 10-4, throughout the game while shrugging off the physical defense of the Stallions, who played their first game of the tournament.
Stallion’s Brazilian forward Leonardo Rosa Nogueira opened the scoreline in the 19th minute from a follow-up off a strong deflection by ADT goalkeeper Enrico Mangaoang.
After the Nogueira goal, both squads took turns in executing set pieces and displaying highly physical defense until Woods tied the game. The two teams had a fair share of ball possession, both finishing 50% in the contest.
“It’s probably one of the most physical matches. We know it’s going to be a tough game against them physically. Our team is young and we want to try our best physically against them,” said Woods.
With the draw, both squads earned a point in the league table. ADT sits at third place with four points with a 1-1-1 win-loss-draw record, while Stallion Laguna ties Mendiola FC 1991 for fifth place with one point.
