Games Today
Trace Aquatic Center
4pm Indonesia vs Vietnam
5:15 Malaysia vs Vietnam
6:30 Philippine vs Singapore

LOS BAÑOS, Laguna- The Philippines tasted victory even before the 23rd Southeast Asian Games could formally start as the water polo team turned back Indonesia, 15-10, Monday in what could be an indication of things to come for the host in the biennial conclave that opens Sunday.

The Filipinos relied on the gritty heroics of the Alamara brothers, Ali and Norton, to finally subdue the Indons and give the country its first win in the aquatics event at the Trace college Aquatics center here.

Defending champion Singapore opened its title-retention bid on a high note by thrashing Malaysia, 21-3 while powerhouse Thailand outplayed Vietnam, 7-5 in the other contests.

With the hosts ahead by only one at the start of the final frame, Ali, a center forward, sank a goal in the last 5:37 while Norton delivered with 4:34 left to help stretch the Filipinos' lead to 12-8.

Although the Indons managed to score two goals after that courtesy of Henrian Saragih and Hendri Maciano, it was clear from there that the locals had the game wrapped up with heads up play in the stretch.

Long time national Coach Reynaldo Galang attributed the victory to the strong fighting spirit of his wards for the breakaway win.

"We just studied well our offensive pattern and worked on our defense perfectly," said Galang, "I also credit the team's endurance and stamina. It helped us to overcome our opponent's physical game.

Center forward Monsuito Pelenio scored the Philippines ' first three goals as the hosts moved ahead, 3-2 with 2:12 left.

The Philippines, which was goof for only one bronze medal in the Vietnam games two years ago, battles defending champion Singapore Tuesday.

SEA GAMES PHILIPPINES [http://www.2005seagames.com.ph/]