Schrock, Aguinaldo reinforce U-22 squad in SEA Games

By Jonas Terrado

Stephan Schrock and Amani Aguinaldo were officially named to the national U-22 squad for the men’s football competitions of the 30th Southeast Asian Games which starts Monday.

The team included Schrock and Aguinaldo as its overaged players for the tournament slated at the Rizal Memorial Stadium where the Philippines will attempt to secure its first-ever semifinal appearance.

Also part of the squad are Justin Baas, Edison Suerti, Yrick Gallantes, Marco Casambre, Chima Uzoka, Jarvey Gayoso, Pocholo Bugas, Dylan de Bruycker, Mar Vincent Diano, Jordan Jarvis, Finn McDaniel, Christian Rontini, Troy Limbo, Jerome Marzan, Dennis Chung, JR Suba, Anthony Pinthus and Michael Asong.

Tapped as reserves were AJ Arcilla, Poi Saldivar, Ivan Ouano, JB Borlongan, Jovan Marfiga, Dean Ebarle and Fritz Brigoli.

Schrock made good on team manager Dan Palami’s earlier declaration of the Azkals midfielder’s interest to reinforce the SEA Games team.

The Ceres-Negros midfielder is expected to provide spunk, especially on the team’s attack while Aguinaldo, who is playing club football for Malaysian club PNKP, will be trusted to strengthen the backline.

HERE WE GO.
Are we ready to cheer for our boys, #PILIPINAS?

Tara na.

⚽️ #OneBlood #PILIPINASu22 #AzkalsxSEAG pic.twitter.com/8sH40sIuMB

— The Philippine Azkals (@TheAzkalsPH) November 21, 2019

Competition rules allow participating countries to tap two players over the maximum age of 22.

The Philippines was drawn in Group A along with Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia and Timor-Leste. The top two squads advance to the semifinals.

First on its assignment is Cambodia slated Monday night followed by a late afternoon match with Myanmar on Nov. 27.

Next on the schedule is Malaysia on Nov. 29 before wrapping up the group stage opposite Timor-Leste on Dec. 4.

Source: Manila Bulletin