November 2002
Sat 30
- Premier League Valletta vs Floriana 1-0, Sliema W. vs Birkirkara 3-3
- Second Division Attard vs Vittoriosa S. 0-2, San Gwann vs Tarxien R. 4-3
- Gozo - First Division Ghajnsielem vs Xewkija T. 3-4
- Gozo - Second Division Gharb R. vs SK Victoria W. 2-0
Fri 29
- Third Division Kirkop U. vs Birzebbuga SP 4-1, Sta. Venera L. vs Gharghur 7-0
- An ad-hoc committee was set-up following the Extraordinary General Meeting of Hamrun Spartans after the previous committee led by Victor Tedesco resigned en-bloc. Edgar Bonnici Cachia, a former vice-president who had resigned following a clash with Tedesco, is the president.
The other members are Jesmond Mangion, Antoine Attard, Saviour Baldacchino and Emmanuel Fenech. These will be acting as members of a caretaker committee before another extraordinary general meeting is held next week. In the next meeting another five persons will be elected in order to have a ten-man committee.
Speakers in Thursday's meeting, for which there was a large number of members and supporters present, included former president Victor Tedesco, Gaetano Debattista, Antoine Attard and Edgar Bonnici Cachia.
Bonnici Cachia said the new committee will be meeting the players on Friday in order to distribute the sum of Lm 10,000 to settle some of the outstanding debts with the players in matters of salaries due.
The group of around 50 persons who have now taken over the management of the club have promised in a letter to the previous committee, which was also read in Thursday's meeting, that they were putting Lm 10,000 at the club's disposal plus Lm 5,000 per month.
- The Malta Football Association has accepted an invitation by the Balearic Sports Federations Union to play a friendly match against a Balearic selection on December 28 in Mallorca.
Since four Premier League matches were scheduled for that weekend, these had to be postponed to January 7 and 8 respectively. Hibernians vs Hamrun and Valletta vs Sliema will be held on January 7 at the National Stadium while Pietà Hotspurs vs Floriana and Birkirkara vs Mosta are now scheduled for January 8 at the Centenary Stadium. Marsaxlokk and Marsa which was scheduled for December 29 will be held as programmed.
The Balearic Islands are made up of Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Mallorca are represented in La Liga and are currently second.
Thu 28
- The future of Hamrun Spartans will be the main topic for discussion as the Extraordinary General Meeting will be held this evening. Following the en-bloc resignation of the committee led by Victor Tedesco, a new committee should be elected.
Tedesco is expected to explain what his committee has done in order to solve the financial problems the club has been facing. On the other hand, the group which intends taking over the management of the club will also explain its plans for the recovery from this difficult situation.
In the mean time, at the meeting of the Council of the Malta Football Association, one of the items on the agenda is the allegation of payments to Maltese-American player Dominic Scicluna who was registered as an amateur player. If found guilty, the Spartans could be fined and have up to a maximum of five points deducted.
- Malta international striker Michael Mifsud was handed a three-match ban after being found guilty of hitting an opponent.
In last Saturday's Bundesliga match against Bayern Munich, the Maltese striker was caught on video hitting Bayern's Niko Kovac with the elbow. Video evidence had to be taken into account since the incident went unnoticed by the referee.
This suspension means that Mifsud will be available to play for Kaiserslautern only for the last league before the winter break against Hertha Berlin on December 15. Mifsud is also banned for playing for the amateur side during the same period.
- The draw for qualifying round of the UEFA European Women's Championship 2003/2005 will be held at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, on Thursday December 5.
Malta will be taking part in the competition for the first time. Thirty-four countries will be part of the draw as England qualified automatically as hosts for the final tournament. Also taking part for the first time are Armenia and Kazakhstan.
The 20 teams competing in the first category will be drawn into four groups of five and the 14 teams competing in the second category will be drawn into two groups of five and one group of four.
This will be the first time a Maltese women's national team will be taking part in a UEFA competition. In the past two years, a local selection took part quite successfully in a tournament in Italy.
Wed 27
- Just a few days before making a return for Birkirkara following a long-term injury, Antoine Zahra will have to postpone his comeback once again after sustaining an knee injury.
The Birkirkara midfielder, who had made his last appearance in March in a game against Valletta, had completed a rehabiliation programme and was due to return for Birkirkara in next Saturday's big match against Sliema Wanderers. However during a training session with the national team, Zahra strained the ligament of the left knee.
Zahra will be travelling to Germany where he will be undergoing tests by the same German professor that had carried out the surgery on his knee.
- The Police Commissioner issued a statement with regards next Saturday's Premier League matches at the National Stadium. Valletta and Sliema Wanderers supporters are to enter and leave Ta' Qali from Mdina Road, Rabat. Parking space reserved for them is in front of the Millennium Stand. On the other hand, Birkirkara and Floriana supporters should enter Ta' Qali from Attard (Pitkali Road) or Mosta and should park their cars in the parking area in front of the Enclosure and roads leading to it.
Tue 26
- The committee of Hamrun Spartans resigned en-bloc on Monday. Following a committee meeting, the management of the club decided to step down after a number of persons seems to be ready to lift the club from its financial crisis.
President Victor Tedesco had already announced on Friday that his committee was ready to step aside if there was anyone who could secure a better future for the club.
The committee informed the Council of the Malta Football Association with a letter and then had a meeting with MFA secretary Joe Gauci. Hamrun Spartans are requesting the permission to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting on Thursday 28 November.
Usually a club cannot hold an EGM without giving a notice seven days earlier. However the urgency of the matter should be enough for the club to be given permission to hold the meeting on Thursday.
In the mean time, rumours have it that the group of persons who intend taking over the management of the club aims to settle the club's debts in a few months. It seems that they are promising to invest Lm 10,000 on their appointment and Lm 5,000 monthly once the new committee is in office.
An important figure among this group of persons, who are keeping a low profile so far, is Edgar Bonnici Cachia. He was elected as vice-president after the last Annual General Meeting but had quit the post after a few weeks following a clash with Victor Tedesco.
- First Division Mqabba vs Lija A. 1-1
- Hibernians striker Ndubisi Chukunyere made his international debut for Nigeria when he played for his country in a friendly match against Egypt in Lagos which ended in a 1-1 draw. Chukunuyere, who played the whole 90 minutes, was one of ten players making their debut for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria coach Christian Chukwu is using these friendly matches in test new players, especially those based abroad. Other Nigerian players based in Malta could be selected for future friendlies. Even Sliema goalkeeper Murphy Akanji who was dropped from the national team earlier this year could be back for the national team. Christian Chukwu is assisted by former Sliema Wanderers and Nigerian national team defender Augustine Eguavon.
Mon 25
- Second Division Mellieha vs Dingli S. 3-1, Gzira U. vs Luqa SA 3-1
Sun 24
- Premier League Hibernians vs Pietà H. 1-0, Hamrun S. vs Floriana 2-0
- Second Division Zurrieq vs Qormi 1-2, Vittoriosa S. vs Zebbug R. 2-1
- Third Division Ta' Xbiex vs Ghaxaq 0-1, Pembroke A. vs Sirens 3-3
- Women's League Mosta vs Melita 2-0, Raiders vs Rabat A. 3-0
- Gozo - First Division Qala SJ vs Xaghra U. 2-1, Victoria H. vs Zebbug R. 0-0
- A goal by Malta international midfielder Stefan Giglio was not enough for Lokomotiv Sofia defeat to avoid another defeat in the Bulgarian Premier League.
Giglio managed to put Loko ahead on 29 minutes but Spartak Varna managed to turn the score in their favour with two goals. He was substituted on 73 minutes.
In Germany, Kaiserslautern were beaten 0-2 by Bayern Munich in a top-bottom clash in the Bundesliga. Michael Mifsud was included as a substitute in the beginning of the second half.
Luke Dimech returned for Shamrock Rovers on Saturday as they drew 0-0 with Longford Town away from home. He was substituted on 72 minutes.
Sat 23
- FA Trophy St. Patrick vs Marsa 2-3, Marsaxlokk vs Senglea A. 2-0
- Gozo - First Division Nadur Y. vs Ghajnsielem 3-0
- Gozo - Second Division Oratory Y. vs Sannat L. 0-2
- First Division leaders Balzan Youths have appointed former Floriana, Sliema, Hamrun, Tarxien and Nadur defender Kim Wright as their new coach. Wright replaces Fats Daja who had joined the club in summer.
A shock 0-4 defeat to Mqabba in the first round of the FA Trophy last Saturday sparked a clash between the Albanian coach and the committee of the promotion hopefuls. This led Daja to hand his resignation.
New Zealand-born Kim Wright has already acted as player coach while playing for Nadur Youngsters in Gozo.
- During a press-conference, Hamrun Spartans president Victor Tedesco spoke about the serious financial crisis the club is going through as it owes around Lm 65,000.
Tedesco said despite scepticism from various quarters, the club had worked hard to build its own stadium. The total cost amounted to Lm175,000 which was a huge burden for the club despite subsidies by the government. From this sum, there is an outstanding debt of Lm 20,000 due to a contractor. The contractor has taken the club to court and the court slammed a requisition order. In turn, the Malta Football Association has freezed the club's assets, meaning that Hamrun cannot pay the players and the clubs they owe various amounts of money. The Hamrun president begged the government to step in and pay the balance due to the contractor considering that after all, all local clubs are benefitting from this stadium.
Five players are owed a total of Lm 15,000 while four clubs - Birkirkara, Floriana, Hibernians and Balzan Youths - are owed Lm 30,000.
Tedesco continued by saying that unfortunately, the people of Hamrun are not united. There is a group of people who claim that they are ready to take over the club is the present administration quits. However, according to Tedesco, these people are not ready to meet him in order to discuss their plans.
As regards the team's position in the Premier League, the situation is difficult especially now that Hamrun are plagued by injuries. Tedesco pointed out that it would be no surprise if they face Floriana with just eleven players and no reserve players on the bench.
Asked whether selling the club's top players could help Hamrun in this difficult situation, Tedesco claimed that this would only "kill" the club.
Fri 22
- Third Division Zejtun C. vs Gudja U. 2-1, Siggiewi vs St. George's 2-2
Thu 21
- Malta lost another place in the Coca-Cola/FIFA World Rankings as published on Wednesday (before Malta played against Cyprus). Malta now lies in the 122nd place.
Having played no matches in the past month, Malta's position was only affected be results obtained by other countries.
Among other European countries, Malta still lies in the 48th place ahead of Andorra (138), Liechtenstein (147), Luxembourg (148) and San Marino (161).
There were no changes at the top with Brazil leading ahead of France, Spain, Germany and Argentina. England is in the sixth place followed by Mexico, Turkey, USA, the Netherlands and Italy.
Wed 20
- EURO 2004 Cyprus vs Malta 2-1
- Valletta midfielder Keith Fenech was the only player to be suspended by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner this week. Fenech received the fourth yellow card in the Premier League match against Mosta. He will miss the next league game against Floriana on November 30.
Tue 19
- UEFA Under 21 Championship Cyprus vs Malta 2-0
- National coach Sigi Held is expected to adopt a 3-5-2 plan as Malta faces Cyprus in a match from the EURO 2004 qualifying round Group 1 on Wednesday at the GSP Stadium in Nicosia.
Held is forced to make two changes from the team which lost 0-4 to France at Ta' Qali with Darren Debono ruled out injured and Joe Brincat suspended.
Sliema Wanderers defender Carlo Mamo is set to fill the gap left wide open by the Valletta defender. Mamo returned to competitive football only in the beginning of this month after he served a six-month ban for testing positive in a doping test.
To replace Brincat, the German mentor has two options - George Mallia or Daniel Bogdanovic. Although both players usually play in a more advanced role than the Sliema midfielder, Mallia was most of the time employed in midfield at Birkirkara in the early part of the season. However Bogdanovic's performances in recent outings were quite impressing making him the favourite.
Meanwhile Chucks Nwoko who sustained a slight ankle injury in a training session on Monday is expected to recover in time for the game. Otherwise both Mallia and Bogdanovic will be included in the starting line-up.
The starting line-up is expected to be: Mario Muscat, Brian Said, Carlo Mamo, Luke Dimech, Jeffrey Chetcuti, David Carabott, Gilbert Agius, Stefan Giglio, Michael Mifsud, Daniel Bogdanovic, Chucks Nwoko.
This will be the fourth match in the EURO 2004 campaign for Malta after a
3-0 defeat to Slovenia in Ljubljana and two defeats to Israel (0-2) and
France (4-0) last month at Ta' Qali. On the other hand, Cyprus have only
played one match, losing 1-2 to France in Nicosia in September.
Malta faced Cyprus five times at international level - a win for each side
and three draws. The last meeting between the two countries was back in
March 1998 with the game ending in a 1-1 draw. But all these encounters were
friendly matches and this will be the first time, the two countries will be
facing each other in a competitive match
Mon 18
- Second Division Attard vs San Gwann 2-0, St. Andrews vs Tarxien R. 2-3
- The Malta Under-21 side faces Cyprus in another match from the UEFA U-21 Championship qualifiers on Tuesday at the Makarion Athletic Centre - Nicosia, kick-off at 17:00.
Coach Mark Miller is expected to make two changes from the team wich lost 0-3 to France with Lee Lombardi, Kurt Farrugia and Antoine Zahra replacing Etienne Barbara, Shaun Bajada and Trevor Cilia respectively.
The decision to replace Bajada and Cilia is a purely tactical one. Both Farrugia and Zahra are regular players with their clubs in the Premier League and their experience could be an asset for the team.
Lombardi will have the task to replace Floriana midfielder Etienne Barbara who was suspended indefinitely from the squad following a clash with U-21 coach Mark Miller.
Miller could not count on Clint Micallef of Birkirkara, who is injured, and Brandon Zammit of Marsaxlokk.
Sun 17
- First Division Lija A. vs Msida SJ 2-1
- Second Division Dingli S. vs Gzira U. 0-1, Qormi vs Mellieha 0-1
- Third Division Sta. Venera L. vs Mgarr U. 5-0, Fgura U. vs Sta. Lucia 2-0
- Women's League Rabat A. vs Mosta 1-2, Hibernians vs Birkirkara 1-1
- Gozo - First Division Ghajnsielem vs Xaghra U. 3-2, Zebbug R. vs Xewkija T. 0-1
- Gozo - Second Division St. Lawrence S. vs Sannat L. 1-2
- National coach Sigi Held named an 18-man squad for next Wednesday's EURO 2004 qualifier against Cyprus in Nicosia.
Missing from the squad is Valletta defender Darren Debono, who failed to recover from an ankle injury he sustained last week, together with Birkirkara defender Michael Spiteri, Jonathan Holland of Floriana and Pietà striker Malcolm Licari.
Sigi Held also opted to leave out of the squad Sliema duo Ian Ciantar and David Camilleri was also left out of the Malta squad. Another Sliema player, Joe Brincat, who made the 100th appearance for the national team last month against Israel, is ruled out through suspension.
The squad is therefore made up of:
goalkeepers Mario Muscat (Hibs), Saviour Darmanin (Pietà);
defenders Jeffrey Chetcuti (Valletta), Luke Dimech (Shamrock Rovers), Carlo
Mamo (Sliema), Brian Said (Sliema), Daniel Theuma (Valletta);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Daniel Bogdanovic (Valletta), William
Camenzuli (Birkirkara), David Carabott (Valletta), Noel Turner (Sliema),
Stefan Giglio (Lokomotiv Sofia) and
forwards George Mallia (Birkirkara), Michael Mifsud (Kaiserslautern), Miguel
Mifsud (Hibs), Adrian Mifsud (Hibs) and Chucks Nwoko (Birkirkara).
- The Malta Under-21 squad, under the guidance of coach Mark Miller, also left Malta on Sunday in view of next Tuesday UEFA U-21 Championship qualifier against Cyprus.
As expected, Floriana midfielder Etienne Barbara is not part of the squad. Barbara was suspended from the Under-21 squad following a clash with Miller.
Also missing from the squad through injury are Clint Micallef of Birkirkara and Brandon Zammit of Marsaxlokk. Msida goalkeeper Omar Borg and Hibernians defender Ryan Mintoff were also dropped from the squad.
The squad is made up of goalkeepers Kristian Calleja (Lija); Justin Haber (Birkirkara);
defenders Jerryton Agius (Valletta), Ian Azzopardi (Floriana), Clifton Ciantar (Floriana), Gareth Sciberras (Pietà), Lee Lombardi (Pietà), Shaun Tellus (Sliema), Kurt Farrugia (Marsaxlokk);
midfielders Shaun Bajada (Floriana), Christian Cassar (Floriana), Roderick Bajada (Hamrun), Jonathan Bondin (Valletta), Kevin Sammut (Sliema) and
forwards Roderick Briffa (Birkirkara), Trevor Cilia (Floriana), Andrew Cohen (Hibs), Antoine Zahra (Hibs).
The match will be played on Tuesday at the Makarion Athletic Centre - Nicosia, kick-off at 17:00 CET.
- Stefan Giglio was one of the scorers for Lokomotiv Sofia as they managed to beat Second Division side Kameno 9-0 in the second round of the Bulgarian Cup. Lokomotiv reach the third round with an aggregate score of 11-0. Giglio played the whole game scoring Lokomotiv's second goal on 26 minutes.
In Germany, Michael Mifsud played the last three minutes when he replaced Miroslav Klose in Kaiserslautern's 5-3 defeat to Werder Bremen on Sunday. The Reds went ahead with a goal by Lincoln but Werder Bremen levelled the score thanks to Verlaat. Koch and Timm put Kaiserslautern 3-1 ahead but an own goal by Klose, an Ailton brace and Klasnic helped Werder Bremen turn the score in their favour. This defeat leaves Kaiserslautern at the bottom of the table in the Bundesliga with only 7 points from 13 matches.
On Wednesday, Mifsud was included as a substitute in the beginning of the second half of the match against VfL Bochum. Despite playing at home, Kaiserslautern lost 0-2.
Sat 16
- FA Trophy Balzan Y. vs Mqabba 0-4, Xghajra T. vs Naxxar L. 0-1
- Gozo - First Division Victoria H. vs Qala SJ 2-0
- Gozo - Second Division Kercem A. vs SK Victoria W. 0-0
- Valletta defender Darren Debono will be missing next Wednesday's EURO 2004 qualifier against Cyprus as he is still recovering an injury.
Debono picked up a knee injury in a clash with an opponent in last Wednesday's Premier League match against Mosta and had to be carried out of the pitch after just 14 minutes. With this injury, the Malta international defender aggravated a problem in the knee he had been suffering from earlier this year.
National coach Sigi Held is expected to name the final squad late on Sunday, just before the team leaves for Cyprus. There should be no surprise choices in the squad as Gilbert Agius and goalkeeper Mario Muscat who were recovering from slight injuries are now fit.
Fri 15
- Third Division Sirens vs Gharghur 3-0, Melita vs Kirkop U. 2-1
- International referee Anton Zammit, accompanied by international assistant referee James Vella Clark, left Malta on Friday, destination Northern Ireland to control matches from the UEFA Under-19 Group 11 mini-tournament. Zammit will control the matches between Andorra and Hungary, Andorra and Wales with Vella Clark as one of his assistants. He will also act as fourth official in the opening match between Northern Ireland and Andorra on Saturday.
- A number of clubs were fined by the Board of Control and Discipline of the Malta Football Association after being found guilty of various accusations.
Nine Premier clubs were fined a total of Lm680 for damages caused to seats at the National Stadium. Hibernians, Birkirkara and Valletta were fined Lm 130, Lm 120 and Lm 115 respectively with the other clubs being fined as follows: Marsa Lm 45, Pietà Lm 80, Floriana Lm 40, Hamrun Lm 55, Marsaxlokk Lm 40 and Sliema Lm 55.
Hamrun Spartans were severely reprimanded and ordered to pay 8% interest as from August 1 on the sum of Lm 2900 they owe Charlo Magro after failing to abide by a decision of the Players, Coaches and Members Clubs Complaints Board.
Marsa were also severely reprimanded and ordered to pay 8% interest as from October 1 on the sum of Lm 1742 they owe Justin Tellus, who was on loan with the club last season, after failing to abide by a decision of the Players, Coaches and Members Clubs Complaints Board.
Marsa were also fined Lm 50 after publishing a letter in the local media in which they criticised the control by a referee. This went against Art. 49 (v)(a) of the statute of the MFA.
Thu 14
- Malta's Under 19 side lost 0-2 to hosts Cyprus in the third and final match from UEFA Under-19 Group 7 mini-tournament. Guiding the Maltese team was MFA Technical Director Horst Heese as U-19 coach Mark Miller had to return Malta to assist the Under 21 side in its final preparations for next week's UEFA Under-21 Championship qualifier against Cyprus.
The Maltese side kept the initiative for the first half-hour without creating significant danger to the Cyprus goal. In the 30th minute, however, a lapse in the Maltese rearguard led to a penalty for the home side awarded by the referee for a foul by Newell on the Cypriot centre-forward. Archontidis converted from the spot. Five minutes later, from a freekick direct to the opposing tea by goalkeeper Hogg led to a break-away from Cyprus who scored their second tally through Stavros.
In the second half, Malta pressed forward on attack in an attempt to get back in the game. Mauro Brincat had a great chance to reduce the arrears when after some intelligent work he shot straight at the goalkeeper from two metres out. Another powerful shot by striker Jonathan Fenech was also splendidly saved by the Cyprus keeper. On the other end, Hogg denied the Cypriots another goal by effecting a fine reflex save off Stavros.
Malta lined-up as follows: Andrew Hogg, Alex Muscat, Carl Sammut, Sergio Cappitta (Michael Martin) Josef Mifsud, Ryan Newell (Sciberras) Jonathan Fenech, Silvan Ciscaldi, Mauro Brincat, Thomas Caruana, Andre Formosa (Clayton Micallef).
Playing a gallant game, the result was a bit harsh on Malta who suffered from the usual defensive lapses which cost them both goals. The absence of Frendo and O'Flaherty through injury was sorely felt.
Tue 12
- UEFA U-19 Championship Bosnia-Herzegovina vs Malta 2-2
In the second match, Miller's young men started the match on the attack hammering away at the opponents for the first ten minutes with Cleaven Frendo going close in the early stages.
Playing with the wind at their back, the Bosnians then took the initiative without threatening the Maltese rearguard. They managed to take the lead on the half-hour as Hadzimehmedovic took advantage of lack of concentration in the Maltese defence. Four minutes later, Newell lost possession when trying to dribble an opponent and Medisevic made it 2-0 for the Bosnians.
After the interval, the Maltese went on the attack penning their opponents in their half. On the hour, Malta was awarded a freekick from 20 metres and Mauro Brincat scored a spectacular goal which beat the Bosnian keeper all ends up. Six minutes later, Jonathan Fenech, who plays for Blackpool in England, scored a great goal for Malta dribbling round two defenders as well as the goalkeeper before hitting the roof of the net. Five minutes later, Newell hit the crossbar with a fine header from a corner-kick with the goalkeeper completely unsighted.
Towards the end, Malta created another two good scoring chances with Thomas Caruna hitting out from the edge of the area and Newell failing to conclude from an inviting freekick by Mauro Brincat.
Malta lined-up as follows: Andrew Hogg, Alex Muscat, Sergio Cappitta, Josef Mifsud, Ryan Newell, Jonathan Fenech (76' Michael Martin), Silvan Ciscaldi, Cleaven Frendo (51' Thomas Caruana), Mauro Brincat, Darren O'Flaherty (82' Darren Micallef), Andre Formosa.
Mon 11
- Second Division Luqa SA vs Vittoriosa S. 0-0, Tarxien R. vs Zurrieq 1-0
- Malta international defender Luke Dimech could rejoin Sliema Wanderers in the end of January just before the final deadline of the January transfer-window. With the Irish League coming to an end on January 24, Shamrock Rovers are expected to allow Dimech to return back in Malta to play for the rest of the season.
Luke Dimech's contract expires in January but the club from Dublin is eager to extend his contract for another season. Since Dimech's arrival in September, Shamrock Rovers climbed from the ninth to the fourth place and stand a chance of winning a place in the UEFA Cup. Employed in midfield, Dimech has played an important role in the Hoops' recovery.
The Dublin club seems to be willing to accept a clause requested by the Malta international defender to be able to play for another club during the break in the Irish League. Clubs in Ireland start the pre-season training in May for the league which kicks-off early in July.
Besides Sliema Wanderers, another club who will be keen to sign Luke Dimech is champions Hibernians. In past, Hibs had made attempts to sign the strong defender from Sliema.
Dimech played for seven years with Sliema before moving to England in summer. However after going for trials with Notts County and Luton Town and Lincoln City, he moved to Ireland.
Sun 10
- UEFA U-19 Championship Norway vs Malta 2-0
The Malta Under-19 side which is currently taking part in the UEFA Under-19 mini tournament Group 7 in Cyprus suffered a 0-2 defeat to Norway in the opening game from the tournament.
The Maltese controlled well the attacks of the Norwegians, despite playing against the wind. The Norwegians made use of high balls which were ably dealt with by the Maltese and especially by keeper Hogg. On 38 minutes, a misunderstanding between defender Alex Muscat and keeper Andrew Hogg resulted in the first Norwegian goal scored by Poljac.
In the second half, the Maltese shared the exchanges with their strong opponents but on 65 minutes, on a breakaway, Norway were awarded a penalty after a useless foul by Sergio Cappitta which Onstad converted. Malta was denied a clear penalty five minutes later when substitute Darren O'Flaherty was pulled by his jersey inside the area when about to shoot. Later in the game, a humdinger by Cleaven Frendo was spectacularly saved by the Norwegian keeper to deny Mark Miller's side a consolation goal.
The Maltese team, under the guidance of coach Mark Miller, lined-up as follows: Andrew Hogg, Sergio Cappitta, Josef Mifsud, Alex Muscat (78' Andre Formosa), Ryan Newell, Carl Sammut (55' O' Flaherty), Mauro Brincat, Silvan Ciscaldi, Clayton Micallef, Jonathan Fenech (85' Caruana), Cleaven Frendo.
Malta plays Bosnia-Herzegovina on Tuesday and against Cyprus on Thursday.
- Second Division Zebbug R. vs Attard 0-0, San Gwann vs St. Andrews 2-1
- Third Division Ghaxaq vs Pembroke A. 2-1, Birzebbuga SP vs Ta' Xbiex 6-2
- Women's League Melita vs Hibernians 0-2, Birkirkara vs Raiders 4-0
- Gozo - First Division Xaghra U. vs Zebbug R. 1-1, Xewkija T. vs Nadur Y. 1-0
Sat 9
- FA Trophy Pietà H. vs Lija A. 4-1, Rabat A. vs Floriana 1-6
- The Premier League matches which were scheduled for Sunday at the Victor Tedesco Stadium were postponed as the pitch is not in a condition to host these matches following the heavy rainfall that hit the island over the past four days.
Hibernians vs Valletta is now scheduled for Tuesday 12 at the Centenary Stadium, kick-off at 18:30. On the other hand, Valletta vs Mosta will be played on Wednesday 13 also at 18:30.
- Gozo - First Division Victoria H. vs Ghajnsielem 0-2
- Gozo - Second Division St. Lawrence S. vs Sannat L. postponed
- Michael Mifsud and Luke Dimech were both in action for their clubs during the week.
In Germany, Michael Mifsud was included as a substitute during the first half of Kaiserslautern's 0-1 defeat to Hannover in the Bundesliga on Saturday. Mifsud replaced Tomasz Klos on 42 minutes. On Tuesday, Mifsud was included in the starting line-up for Kaiserslautern as they registered a 0-1 away win over Energie Cottbus in a match from the second round of the German Cup (DFB Pokal). Christian Timm scored the only goal eight minutes from time. The Maltese international striker was replaced by Ratinho on 88 minutes.
In Ireland, Shamrock Rovers registered another two wins to keep moving further up the table. On Tuesday, the Hoops swept away the challenge offered by Drogheda United beating them 5-0 at Tolka Park. On Saturday, Shamrock Rovers defeated second-placed Cork City 4-1 at Richmond Park, which will be used as their home-ground for the remaining part of the season. Shamrock Rovers are now in fourth place with 24 points from 14 matches. They have a game in hand meaning that they could join Shelbourne and Cork City in second place with 27 points. Bohemians lead the table with 33 points.
In Bulgaria, Lokomotiv Sofia sacked coach Dimitrov and appointed Yannes Petrov as the new coach. Lokomotiv, who are currently tenth meet Naftex Burgas on Saturday.
Fri 8
- Third Division Sta. Lucia vs Siggiewi 0-2, St. George's vs Zejtun C. 1-0
- The Tumas Group have sponsored the 1st Division Club Balzan Youths F.C. for the 2002/2003 season. Dr. John Zammit Montebello, President of Balzan Youths FC, gave details of the agreement during a presentation held at the Balzan Football Club Headquarters. He thanked the Tumas Group for its financial support towards the continued success of the club.
"We value our relationship with the Tumas Group as well as all the other brands sponsoring our club. Such partnerships support our plans to grow and succeed," said Dr. John Zammit Montebello. Looking ahead he said that the club has a full schedule and he praised the squad of players, predicting that the team can achieve its objectives for this season.
Tumas Group Consultant, Mr. Tony Debono (on behalf of The Fenech Family), announced the importance that such clubs have in the local football scene. "With such rapid success, from third division to 1st division and now topping the present standings, it is clear to see the effort put into this club. I have also noticed the importance given to the Balzan nursery under the Presidency of Mr George Borg (vice President Balzan Youths FC), which is vital for the future of any club. The investment in the nursery is the only guarantee for long-term success and development".
"Balzan Youths FC has a long history, and we look forward to sharing the enthusiasm of the supporters and players with our sponsorship" concluded Mr Debono.
Also present was Mr. Stephen Gatt, on behalf of "Sports Experience" who have sponsored Balzan Youths with the kits for the past three seasons.
- The MFA Technical Centre will be holding another instructional meeting for all 'C' Licence and Foundation Coaches on Monday 11th November at the MFA Technical Centre, Ta' Qali at 18:30. The Instructional Meeting will consist of a lecture conducted by Mr Tom A. Restall, Head of the Referees Department on a "A Closer Relationship between the Coach and the Referee". All coaches who possess the above-mentioned licences are expected to attend this session.
Thu 7
- Super 5 Birkirkara vs Hibernians 4-1
- Former Naxxar Lions and Sliema Wanderers striker Orosco Anonam could join Birkirkara when the transfer market re-opens on January 1. The Nigerian striker returned to Malta a couple of weeks ago after being released by Cyprus champions APOEL Nicosia.
Although Anonam's target is still that of playing in mainland Europe, the Nigerian striker will most probably play the remaining part of the season with Birkirkara. Through FIFA-licensed agent Damian Iwueke, the Stripes are believed to have already reached a preliminary agreement with the player, who scored 49 goals in the Premier League during the past four seasons.
Anonam arrived in Malta in 1998 to join Naxxar Lions but after two years, he joined Sliema Wanderers. Early last season, he moved to Hungary where he signed for Vasas SC. However when the team was nearing bankruptcy, Anonam was released by the Hungarian side. Back in Malta, he agreed terms with Birkirkara but ultimately, Sliema managed to capture his signature.
After going for trials with Liaoning Fushun Tegang in China, St. Gallen in Switzerland and Auxerre in France, Anonam signed for APOEL last June.
The signing of Anonam would mean that Birkirkara will have to release one of their three foreigners. Romanian defender Lucian Dronca is the only player who will definitely retain his place. One player between Sunday Eboh and Jaroslav Marx will therefore be released in January.
The Stripes are keeping their eyes wide open in search for other foreign players and it would be no surprise if both Eboh and Marx are released if they manage to sign another foreigner besides Anonam.
- Third Division side Gharghur FC announced the appointment of Martin Gregory as the club's coach for the rest of the 2002/2003 season.
Martin Gregory had a long career as a player, where he played amongst others with teams such Sliema Wanderers and Floriana FC In the past he also served for two seasons as player-coach with Sliema Wanderers.
Martin Gregory has collected thirty six (63) caps with the Maltese national team, making his debut on the 12th of December 1985 in a match which the Maltese national team played away to Portugal as part of the World Cup qualifications phase, and which ended in a victory for the Portugese team with a score line of three goals against two.
- The Malta Under-19 side leaves Malta on Friday, destination Cyprus, where the team will be taking part in the UEFA Under-19 mini tournament Group 7 which will be played between November 9 and 15.
Taking part in the group besides Malta and hosts Cyprus, are Bosnia-Herzegovina and Norway. Malta plays Norway on Sunday, Bosnia-Herzegovina on Tuesday and against Cyprus on Thursday.
Coach Mark Miller selected the following players:
goalkeepers Andrew Hogg (Pietà) and Bernard Paris (Birkirkara)
defenders Sergio Cappitta (Pietà), Andre Formosa (Msida), Josef Mifsud (Sliema), Alex Muscat (Lija), Ryan Newell (Mosta), Karl Sammut (Pietà), Bernard Sciberras (San Gwann);
midfielders Matthew Borg (Birkirkara), Mauro Brincat (Hamrun), Silvan Ciscaldi (Pietà), Michael Martin (Sliema), Clayton Micallef (Hibernians), Darren O'Flaherty (Pietà) and
forwards Thomas Caruana (St. Patrick), Jonathan Fenech (Blackpool - ENG) and Cleaven Frendo (Pietà).
Accompanying the squad are MFA vice-president Ludovico Micallef who is the head of delegation, team secretary Joe Pace, technical director Horst Heese, team doctor Dr Aaron Formosa and physiotherapist Gordon Scicluna.
Wed 6
- Super 5 Sliema W. vs Valletta 3-1
- After suffering a heavy 0-5 defeat to Sliema Wanderers last Sunday, Pietà Hotspurs suffered another major setback when they had three key-players suspended for the next league game.
Digger Okonkwo, who was sent off early in the game, together with Italian defender Mirko Di Lello and Australian defender/midfielder Mirko Jurilj, who both collected their fourth yellow card, were all suspended and will miss the game against Hibernians on November 24.
This match brings to an end the first round commitments for the two teams although both teams would have already played the first match from the second round earlier.
- Three committee members of Qormi Football Club were temporarily suspended by the Board To Investigate Corrupt Practices of the Malta Football Association.
Qormi FC vice-president Silvan Fenech was suspended as from October 14 while treasurer Joseph Spiteri and club member Carmel Falzon were banned as from October 30.
Last month, Spiteri and Falzon pleaded guilty in court to trying to bribe a Zebbug Rangers prior to the September 29 Second Division league match. Both persons were given a one-year jail term suspended for four years.
Sun 3
- Premier League Sliema W. vs Pietà H. 5-0, Birkirkara vs Marsa 3-0
- Second Division Vittoriosa S. vs Dingli S. 3-2, Gzira U. vs Qormi 2-3
- Women's League Hibernians vs Rabat A. 6-0, Raiders vs Mosta 0-0
- Gozo - First Division Xewkija T. vs Xaghra U. 3-2, Nadur Y. vs Qala SJ 1-0
- Malta international players Stefan Giglio and Luke Dimech were both in action this weekend for their respective clubs. Stefan Giglio played the whole 90 minutes in Lokomotiv Sofia's 4-0 defeat to Litex Lovech. This result leaves Lokomotiv in tenth place with ten points from 11 matches.
In Ireland, Luke Dimech played another good game in Shamrock Rovers' 0-1 away win over Shelbourne at Tolka Park. The Hoops are now fifth with 18 points from 13 matches.
Sat 2
- FA Trophy Gozo vs Mosta 1-2, Hamrun S. vs Msida SJ 0-3
- Gozo - Second Division Knock-Out Final SK Victoria W. vs Sannat L. 1-0 (golden goal)
- Hibernians striker Ndubisi Chukunyere is one of 43 players who has received an invitation by the Nigeria Football Association to play in two friendly matches against Jamaica and Egypt later this month.
Nigerian coach Christian Chukwu said he is trying "see in action many of our untested foreign-based players." In fact, the list includes 17 players based outside Nigeria.
Chukwu said training would start at their camp in Ota town, on the outskirts of Lagos, on Sunday.
The Eagles play Jamaica on 20 November in Lagos and five days later face Egypt in the northern city of Kano.
The foreign-based players are: Ikpe Ekong (Reggiana ITA), Ifeanyi Ekwueme (POL), Bosun Ayeni (Brondby DEN), Bina Ajunwa (FRA), Joseph Enakhire (Standard Liege, BEL), Francis Kumbur (Yeovil FC, ENG), Chibuike Okeke (Union Berlin, GER), Bright Igbinadolor (FIN), Haruna Doda (Santa Clara, POR), Chukwudi Nworgu and Tony Alegbe (both Mettaluril, UKR), Emmanuel Izuagha (GER), Chukunyere Ndubuisi, Sunny Ibeji (Al-Ahly, EGY), Benson Ani (Union Madeira, POR), Uche Kalu (Wisla Krakow, POL) and Onyedika Ogbulie (Dubai FC, UAE).
Chukunyere was due to quit playing for one month as he was about to undergo an operation. However this national team call-up should make him postpone it.
Another Malta-based player who was being considered for selection - Minabo Asechemie of Marsa, was not selected.
- Malta international striker Michael Mifsud scored his first goal in the Bundesliga as he earned a point in a 2-2 draw away to Hansa Rostock.
Mifsud replaced Miroslav Klose at the beginning of the second half as the latter had to leave the pitch injured. The Maltese striker was a constant menace and twelve minutes from time, with Kaiserslautern trailing 2-1, a shot by Thomas Riedl hit the posts and off the rebound, Mifsud hit home.
This result still leaves the Reds second from bottom with seven points, four points behind Borussia Monchengladbach and two ahead of wooden-spoonists Energie Cottbus. However Kaiserslautern have a game in hand.
Commenting after the game, Kaiserslautern's Belgian coach Eric Gerets said "I am very pleased with what Mifsud did. He has shown clearly that he is a great player."
Fri 1
- Super 5 Tournament Hibernians vs Valletta 2-2 (8-7 on penalties)
- A number of clubs were handed fines by the Malta Football Association's Board of Control and Discipline.
First Division side Senglea Athletic were fined a total of Lm 45 after being found guilty of having supporters throwing a plastic bottle into the pitch and for insulting the match officials in the game against Mqabba and for having a supporter insulting the referee in the game against Balzan.
Marsa and Marsaxlokk were fined Lm 5 each as they caused the delay of the Premier League match between the two teams. Mosta were also fined Lm 15 for causing the delay of Pietà vs Mosta.
Floriana were fined Lm 25 as the numbers on their players' shirt in the match against Sliema were not clearly visible and another Lm 10 after having fans insulting an assistant referee in the game against Marsaxlokk.
Hamrun were fined Lm 20 after supporters threw a plastic seat inside the pitch in the game against Marsa while Valletta were fined Lm 5 and were reprimanded after their supporters sang offensive slogans in direction of a Sliema player.
Second Division side Vittoriosa Stars were fined Lm55 for various offences in the game against St. Andrews. They had unauthorized officials sitting on the bench and officials kept on smoking in the Technical Area despite being cautioned.
From Division 1, Balzan were fined Lm 5 after a supporter insulted the referee in the game against Senglea. Naxxar were fined Lm35 for failing to provide ball-boys for the match against St. Patrick and the Saints were fined Lm 15 after their supporters insulted the match officials and the opponents' players in the same game.
Third Division side Sta. Lucia were fined Lm 25 as they had the colours of the shorts and socks similar to those against Sta. Venera Lightenings.
- Local Champions Hibernians FC landed more silverware as Milan Supporters Club (MALTA) recently presented the local champions with a commemorative trophy for last year's exploit.
Milan Club (MALTA) celebrated the end of the sporting and social activities season in style as a Hibernians' contingent including full squad headed by Hibs coach Robert Gatt paid a visit to the Milan Club (MALTA) headquarters.
During the evening, Milan Club president Michael Borg presented trophies to the winners of the various sporting activities held throughout the year, including a summer league held between the Club's members.
Hibernians captain Mario Muscat was presented by a trophy, while he exchanged the courtesy by presenting the club an outfit used by Hibernians during their European feat against Boavista in Ta' Qali.