McDaniel honors veteran Filipinas goalie

Filipinas goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel tips her hat to veteran Inna Palacios in light of her retirement from national team duty.

McDaniel credited the 31-year-old keeper for helping her improve her saves in the biggest stage.

Palacios had a fitting farewell after the Filipinas made history by winning the historic gold medal in the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the expense of dethroned Vietnam in a penalty shootout, 0-0 (6-5), at the Chonburi Stadium in Thailand.

“She built this team. She got us to where we are. She’s my ate, and I’m so thankful for her,” said McDaniel, who made the SEA Games gold medal-winning save.

“She has been my rock ever since I stepped into this team and into my role. She’s team-first, always pushing me to be my best.”

Ending an 18-year career with the national team in the prestigious biennial meet was surreal for Palacios.

“Full circle moment for me. SEA Games was when I started to dream and it just took me 18 years to get the gold,” she said.

“It’s sad that I have to leave the team, but I know I’ve done everything I can as a player. I’ve given so much for the team, and now I want to see them dream for that,” Palacios added.

"I’m proud of myself for staying when it was so much easier to go. When you believe with your heart, you stand by it. That’s the true heart of a Filipino.”

After the holidays, the Filipinas will now shift their focus preparing for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup from 1 to 21 March in Australia.