By MARK REY MONTEJO
The Philippine men’s lacrosse team ran into a rock – so solid it was the Nationals suffered a crushing 3-13 defeat at the hands of world-class Australia in the finals of the 2026 Asia-Pacific Men’s Lacrosse Championship in Wellington on Sunday, Jan. 11.
Entering the finale unscathed, the Nationals held their Aussies in check in the opening period but lost their bearings over the next three frames, where the Australians shifted into a higher gear while rattling the Filipino bets with their air-tight defense.
Despite falling short in its gold-medal quest, the runner-up finish was still a historic one for the country as it marked its first podium finish in the blue ribbon event.
Also, the country is set for its third consecutive appearance on the global stage as it secured its spot in the 2027 World Championship in Japan, where the Japanese, the Australians, and the Kiwis are also qualified.
Australia, on the other hand, ended its 18-year title drought with its first crown since the 2007 edition held in Auckland.
“Fought til the end. So incredibly proud of our guys, silver medalists and #2 in the Asia-Pacific,” the Philippines Lacrosse Association wrote on its social media post. “See you in Japan in 2027!”
Jayden Basalatan starred for the Filipinos with one goal and two assists off Nicholas Marsh and Christian Tacogue’s respective strikes, while leading the Aussies was John Stubbs and Matthew Wood with four and three goals, respectively.
Prior to their final loss to Australia, the Nationals swept their assignments in the eliminations after beating the likes of China (20-1), Hong Kong (9-4), and Japan (10-9) to earn an outright semifinal berth.
In the semis, the Philippines got the better of host New Zealand, 12-7, behind the superb outing from Benjamin Palli.
Meanwhile, Japan sealed its 10th consecutive podium with a bronze after beating New Zealand, 9-5, while Hong Kong bested China, 10-6, to hold the 5th spot in the conclusion of the six-day meet.
