“Year-round training, testing, and improvements need to be taken more seriously and I believe that’s something the players need to assume more accountability of in the privileged positions they are in,” Gadia said. “I think our youth players need to be pressed more in terms of their overall physical fitness standards. Not being fit and not being prepared are controllables, and should be a non-negotiable at the international level.”
Guam’s team finished the qualification round with a 0-2-2 record and in fourth position in the group. Guam was forced to a 1-1 draw in its opening match with Bhutan and next played to a 2-2 draw with Bangladesh. Against the group’s top two teams, Guam fell to Vietnam 3-0 and to eventual group winner Syria 10-1. Shuntaro Suzuki scored two of Guam’s four goals in the qualification round – one against Bhutan and another against Bangladesh. Curtis “Meto” Harmon scored Guam’s other goal against Bangladesh and Gavin Baker scored Guam’s goal against Syria. All matches were played at the Lach Tray Stadium in Hai Phong, Vietnam. .....