Pakistan 27-22 Guam, in Manila
Pakistan won a fine match in Manila as brave Guam fell to their second close defeat in a matter of weeks.
The game started with two quick tries to winger Edwood Calro of Guam and then to veteran hooker, Sulman Majeedwain. The difference came from the impressive blindside flanker and kicker for Pakistan, Kashif Khawaja, who converted for Pakistan to take his side to an early 7-5 lead. The game quietened down after this opening spell as the players began to feel the humid temperatures.
Pakistan extended their lead just before half time through number 8, Azmat Khan, exploiting some sloppy defence by Guam from a quick tap. This was converted by Kashif – 14 points to 5 in favour of Pakistan at the break. Guam had several lapses in concentration throughout the match, which cost them three tries and they will also be disappointed by the many unforced errors that let scoring opportunities go begging.
Pakistan put Guam under real pressure in the second half by scoring a try and a penalty to Kashif Khawaja and push the score out to 22 points to 5. However as Guam started to hold their passes and utilise the ball better the game became exciting and with six minutes to go unbelievably the scores were locked up at 22-22 after Guam scored two tries. Guam did, though, miss five kicks at goal, which proved crucial as they had the fitness and displayed the skills as Pakistan tired.
However, on the rare occasion that Pakistan was in Guam’s half, they scored. Big second row Mohsin Khan packed down at number 8 and fooled everyone by picking the ball up from the base of the scrum, giving a small dummy pass and ran 25 metres for what was the final score of the match – 27 to 22 to Pakistan.
Kashif Khawaja was outstanding for Pakistan. The team would be very happy with the win and sets up an interesting encounter against the other unbeaten team in Division 5 – Philippines on the 10 June. Guam would be disappointed with their performance.
Philipines 3 - 24 Pakistan , in Manila
Pakistan wrapped up their 2006 Asian Nations Series group five campaign with a well earned 24-3 victory over the Philippines in Manila.
The Philippines had the upper hand in the first half, bottling their opposition up in their own 22 for the opening quarter but Pakistan were able to soak up the pressure.
With half time looming they scored a fine try, wing Arslan Zahid crossing the line. A tight first half ended with the score at 7-3 in favour of Pakistan.
Much improved from their 18-14 mid-week victory over Guam, Pakistan showed strong defence and good organisation and were able to establish territorial advantage, which in turn placed the Philippines under pressure.
Two further tries came for Pakistan in the second half, a second for Zahid and one for flanker Rehan.
