Guy displays maturity

Jael-Marie Guy couldn’t believe she was a key factor in the Philippines returning to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil next year.

Guy, who delivered two crucial assists in the Filipinas’ 2-0 win over Uzbekistan in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup play-in, said she trusted her instincts on her passes and had faith her efforts won’t go down the drain.

It was the 18-year-old Filipino-American booter’s second tournament after winning it all in the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand last December.

“Going to a World Cup is something that seems unreachable until it actually happens. I’m just super grateful and so excited to go to Brazil,” Guy said.

“When I got the ball, I just thought — go to goal, find people near the goal. I felt fresh and wanted to take advantage of that.”

Head coach Mark Torcaso was impressed how Guy conducted business despite being the youngest player in the squad.

“I’m honestly at a loss for words right now, but I’ll try to put it into perspective. We came into this with a very young squad, averaging around 23 to 24 years of age,” Torcaso said.

“To see one of our future stars step up and perform the way she did on a big stage like this is incredibly special.”

Despite the individual recognition, Guy was quick to emphasize the collective effort behind the victory.

“It really takes a village. Ange (Beard) and Jackie (Sawicki) weren’t there to finish those chances, this wouldn’t have happened,” Guy said.

“Everyone — from the defense to the bench — played a role.”