NEGROS Occidental Football Association-bankrolled Philippine Team suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to host-China on Thursday to finish fourth overall in the just-concluded Soong Ching Ling Cup held in China.

The Philippines were up 1-nil at the half but China bounced back just four minutes into the second half for the equalizer off a defensive error. Minutes later, the Chinese took the lead on a deflection.

Filipino striker Julio Antonio Yoldi gave his team the lone goal while Jared Alexander Peña tried to equalize but his attempt was saved by the Chinese keeper.

“The Philippine Team didn’t give up until the final whistle. Nevertheless, China deserved to win,” team manager Andrew Infante said. “With just a month of preparation, it was a good run for the team. Last year, we finished fifth,” he added.

The Negrenses broke the Great Wall in the opener with a stunning 3-0 win but fall short in the semifinals on goal aggregate following a huge 6-1 setback against Thailand. (HGD/SunStar Bacolod)