Manila Montet Tryout Level Keeps Going Up
Sunday morning at BGC Turf, and the third Manila Montet tryout gave us probably the clearest sign so far of where this team is heading.
The level was high. Actually, probably the highest we have seen since the tryouts started.
And honestly, it makes sense.
The first sessions had a much bigger group, with players of very different levels. But every week, the weaker players are removed and the ones who perform well are invited back.
So naturally, the level goes up.
By the third tryout, you can already see a much more competitive group. Players are fighting for every ball, every position and every opportunity to stay in the squad.
Walang libre dito.
If you are coming back next Sunday, it means you have already done enough to convince the coaches that you deserve another look.
And for the players who are still there, things are only going to get harder.
The Montet Challenge Series 4th edition is getting closer, and these players know what is waiting for them. A place in the final squad means the chance to play in front of a growing Manila Montet fanbase, with plenty of people already waiting to see who will eventually wear the blue.
There is also one thing we noticed today which deserves to be mentioned.
The heat.
The tryout started at 8am and even then, BGC Turf was already very hot. And this is important because the official Montet Challenge Series matches are scheduled from 10am to 12pm every Sunday.
That is going to be tough.
Not only for the players, but also for the supporters.
And let's be clear: many fans want to watch Manila Montet.
The problem is not a lack of interest.
Fans want to come, support the team, wear the blue and spend their Sunday watching football. But they also want to watch in good conditions.
We remember last season. Even as fans, there were games where the heat became too much and we had to leave. Sayang, because nobody wants to leave a football match before it is finished simply because the conditions are unbearable.
If you want more people in the stands, especially families and younger supporters, the matchday experience matters.
The football level is rising every week.
The squad is getting more competitive.
The fans are waiting.
Now the conditions around the matches also need to allow those fans to stay and enjoy it.
10am-12pm might look fine on a schedule.
In Manila, under the sun, it is a very different story.
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