By Mark Angelo Mañez

PHOTO: Inquirer Sports

MANILA — "Never Say Die!"

PH Malditas secured its first three points as they drubbed Nepal, 2-1, on late goals from Tahnai Annis and Camille Wilson at the 2021 AFC Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers in Tashkent, Uzbekistan Saturday night.

It took almost 80 minutes before the Malditas found their mark as debutant Chandler McDaniel latches an inviting cross and found an approaching Annis, calmly sending the ball into the back for a much-needed lifeline.

The World Rank 101st Nepal's Bimala Chaudhary pierced 68th ranked PH's defenses as she drew first blood 10 minutes after kickoff.

Head coach Marlon Maro didn't hide his elation after the win, which put them closer to securing their 10th appearance in the continental conclave.

“The new players played well and initiated the first goal,” said Maro. “Our adjustments in the second half resulted in us scoring in the last five minutes.”

They will now face Hong Kong on September 24th, with either a win or a draw putting them into the final stage next year in India.