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County champions meet new international team

22/ 8/2008

COUNTY Cup holders New East Manchester FC recently played a demonstration match against players hoping to become a part of the Philippines national team.

The game was played at Wright Robinson College in Abbey Hey which is the new home of the club.

A hard fought clash saw NEM leading 3-1 at half time, but the visitors hit back in style to record a 6-3 win.

NEM manager Mike Smith said: "It was great for the lads to have this demo match at the start of a new season which will see them playing in the first division.

"The team is only three seasons old, and it’s been an amazing time. When I set this team up it was about giving the lads confidence, and they have that now."

The Philippines team was made up from a final 16 chosen throughout a morning of trials held with FA coach James Hall (formerly of Glasgow Rangers).

More than 40 youngsters from all over England tried for a place in a squad. The 16 included youngster Ryan Hall who is currently with Liverpool youth.

Leo Jensen, who put the trial together said: "I felt sad that football in the Philippines was not doing very well.

"But recently we have seen the likes of Neil Etheridge, Chad Gould and the Younghusband brothers, Phil and James, bring new interest and talent to the game.

"Because of this I am sure we will find more players of the future in England"