Leylam FC’s downfall in their campaign in the recent Football Fives World Championship (F5WC) in Dubai, UAE will become the team’s main source of motivation for future local or international tournaments.
Head coach Oliver Colina was optimistic when asked about the state of the team’s morale after competing in the biggest five-aside amateur tournament in the world.
He said the team learned a lot and enjoyed the tournament considering that they played against top football teams from other countries.
They only won against Uruguay in the second day, 5-3, but lost to Germany, 0-11, and Estonia, 1-7.
“Our experience was great. It totally boosted the team’s confidence when we compete locally,” Colina said.
The team, composed of of Alex Buanghog, Ranulfo Colina, Ruffy Llorenta, Carlo Tacusalme, Michael Pacite Ugur and Cem Tasci, will now shift their focus on the Aboitiz Football Cup, where they are the first runner-up in the coveted men’s open division.
They are also a strong contender in the inter-company division.
“It’s really hard to prepare in Aboitiz Football Cup because the schedule is not that consistent. Sometimes they cancel the matches, that’s why we have difficulties preparing but with our experience in Dubai, we learned a lot and it served as a great confidence booster for the team.” Colina added.