Teen Ayuyus score in AFC tourney

The CNMI U16 Boys National Team ‘s Ian Maniago reacts after scoring against Timor-Leste during the second half of their game in the AFC U16 Championship 2018 Qualifiers last Sunday at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. (Asian Football Confederation)

The CNMI U16 Boys National Team made its first goal in its final game in the AFC U16 Championship 2018 Qualifiers last Sunday at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

Ian Maniago lit up the board in the 70th minute of their match versus Timor-Leste to end the Teen Ayuyus’ scoring drought and keep the squad’s head up despite finishing the tournament winless. Timor-Leste still downed the CNMI, 10-1.

Maniago had the opportunity to find the back of the net when he received a forward pass from Kirt Andon from the backcourt a bit far from the center mark. The ball rolled past Maniago, who chased the leather while two Timor-Leste defenders also sprinted to catch up with the CNMI midfielder. Maniago then caught up with the ball, took a few dribbles, and then unloaded a shot using his left foot. Timor-Leste goalie Filonito Nogueira stepped in and slid trying to block the ball, but was a bit late, allowing a nearly teary-eyed Maniago to celebrate his first international goal.

Maniago’s teammates later joined the quick party, while their supporters back home who were able to watch the match were also elated as the CNMI broke its silence in the Asian Football Confederation-sanctioned tournament.

“Scoring even one goal is an extremely difficult task against our opponent,” Northern Mariana Islands Football Association president Jerry Tan said. “We are extremely proud of our U16 boys as we all know how tough the AFC competition is.”

“I want to thank our team officials for taking very good care of the team in Bangkok. Same appreciation goes to all the parents as youth soccer can’t be successful without the ‘year round’ support from our parents,” the NMIFA head added.

Majority of the members of the CNMI Boys U16 National Team are scheduled to return on Saipan today after playing four matches in the Group G qualifier, which Indonesia topped after earning a perfect 4-0-0 win-draw-loss record. Thailand finished second with its 3-0-1 mark, followed by Timor-Leste (2-0-2), and Laos (1-0-3).

“The boys played with their hearts and gave everything for the team. This competition was a very good learning experience and will now give the boys a clearer idea on how soccer outside of the NMI is played. We would like to thank all the parents who supported the boys from Day 1. Now the boys can’t wait to come back home,” team manager Rodwealth Espana said.