PH Volcanoes react to Sri Lanka win, top 5 promotion

MANILA, Philippines – The men’s Philippine rugby team made history when they defeated Sri Lanka 28-18 Friday, April 21, in the final match of the Asian 5 Nations Division I tournament.

The victory promotes the Philippine Volcanoes to Asia’s top 5, and will give them a shot to qualify for the Rugby World Cup.

Below are Rappler’s exclusive post-match interviews with some members of the Philippine Volcanoes.

Fly-half Oli Saunders, who scored 3 penalty kicks for the Volcanoes, told Rappler they showed the world that the Philippine rugby team has what it takes to win.

Team manager Matt Cullen explained the significance of the victory, calling the Volcanoes the best team the Philippines has. He emphasized the huge progress they have made in recent years, having only lost one game in the past 5 years.

French-Filipino Patrice Olivier said the win was worth it after the team paid for their own flights and expenses to compete for the country, and called the Filipino fans the best in the world.

The Palace also extended its congratulations to the team through presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, who told media: “The entire Filipino nation congratulates our Philippine volcanoes for their victory over Sri Lanka at the Asian 5 Nations Rugby, 28-18. Once again we have shown that the grit, determination, and resilience at the core of every effort can surmount any challenge. Truly, the Filipino’s heart can never be underestimated.”

Full story here. – Rappler.com

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