October 2006
Sun 29
- FA Trophy Vittoriosa S. vs Pieta' H. 0-1, Marsa vs Qormi 3-3 aet (9-8 pen)
- Second Division Balzan Y. vs Rabat A. 1-3, Birzebbuga SP vs Melita 0-2
- Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs Qala SJ 2-0, Ghajnsielem vs Nadur Y. 2-2
Sat 28
- FA Trophy St. Patrick vs Senglea A. 4-0, Tarxien R. vs Hamrun S. 2-1
- Gozo - First Division Xewkija T. vs Xaghra U. 4-3
- Gozo - GFA Cup Zebbug R. vs Victoria H. 1-3 aet
- Former Malta Under-21 coach Ray 'Zazu' Farrugia is the new coach of Sliema Wanderers.
Farrugia replaces coach Edward Aquilina and assistant Hugh Caruana who had handed their resignation after the team's disappointing start to their BOV Premier League campaign.
The Wanderers are currently sixth with eleven points from eight matches. They only managed to beat St. George's, Marsa and Pietà and drew with Floriana and Birkirkara, losing the other matches to Hibernians, Valletta and Marsaxlokk.
Aquilina, assisted by Caruana, led the Blues to three successive Premier League titles between 2002/03 and 2004/05, besides other major honours.
Ray 'Zazu' Farrugia, who is a former coach of Naxxar Lions and Pietà Hotspurs, acted as technical director of Marsaxlokk last season.
Fri 27
- Third Division Kirkop U. vs Gzira U. 2-3, Ghaxaq vs Gharghur 0-3
- Sliema Wanderers coach Edward Aquilina and his assistant Hugh Caruana handed their resignation after the team's disappointing start to their BOV Premier League campaign. Their resignation has been discussed by the committee and has been accepted.
The Wanderers are currently sixth with eleven points from eight matches. They only managed to beat St. George's, Marsa and Pietà and drew with Floriana and Birkirkara, losing the other matches to Hibernians, Valletta and Marsaxlokk.
Aquilina, assisted by Caruana, led the Blues to three successive Premier League titles between 2002/03 and 2004/05, besides other major honours.
Wed 25
- German coach Michael Molzahn quit his job as Marsa coach.
After winning promotion from Division 1 at the end of last season, Marsa have so far struggled in the BOV Premier League and are currently anchored at the bottom of the table, on level points with Pietà Hotspurs. They won just two points in draws with St. George's and Pietà Hotspurs, losing the other six matches.
Molzahn had joined Marsa in summer 2004.
He could be replaced by former Malta international coach Terenzio Polverini. After coaching the national team in the mid-seventies, Polverini coached a number of clubs in the seventies, eighties and early nineties. In the mean time, Nigerian midfielder Essien Mbong will be leading training sessions.
- Four Premier League players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner on Wednesday.
Floriana midfielder Manolito Micallef, Hibernians defender Aaron Xuereb, Marsa striker Anthony Chimezie Ewurun and Sliema Wanderers defender Mauro Di Lello are therefore ruled out of the next Premier League games which will be played in a month's time.
Micallef will be missing the next Floriana game against Pietà Hotspurs on December 2. Xuereb is ruled out of the game between Hibernians and St. George's on November 26.
Ewurun is ruled out for Marsa in the game against Marsaxlokk on November 26 while Di Lello will be unavailable for the game Sliema vs Msida on November 25.
Marsaxlokk team-manager Peter Hartshorne was banned for two matches.
In Division 1, Ismael Zammit (Naxxar), Gaetan Spiteri (Hamrun) and Duncan Burke (Vittoriosa) were suspended for one match while Hamrun Spartans official Gilbert Camilleri was suspended for two matches.
Ivan Buttigieg (Kalkara), Daniel Gatt (Qrendi) and Sean Cassar (Ta' Xbiex) were suspended for one match.
In the Youth League, two Senglea Athletic players - Joe Abela Courtenay and Darren Cassar - were suspended for three years each while coach Gordon Camilleri was suspended for one year.
Christian Agius (Lija) and Gordon Farrugia (Marsa) were suspended for one match.
Tue 24
- The Executive Committee of Msida St Joseph FC would like to condemn the incident which occurred following the match vs Hibs, where a person wearing a Msida Supporters' Club t-shirt was involved in a row with a police officer at the Ta' Qali National Stadium.
The Club unreservedly condemns such behaviour and whilst wishing the police officer a quick recovery, urges its supporters to always show respect to the authorities carrying out sterling work for the safety of all those attending football matches.
Mon 23
- Second Division Lija A. vs Gozo 2-0, Sta. Venera L. vs Gudja U. 1-1
Sun 22
- Premier League Birkirkara vs Pieta' H. 2-1, St. George's vs Floriana 0-0
- First Division Vittoriosa S. vs St. Patrick 1-3, Naxxar L. vs Hamrun S. 1-0
- Third Division Mgarr U. vs Luqa SA 0-0, Xghajra T. vs Fgura U. 1-2
- Gozo - First Division Kercem A. vs Ghajnsielem 2-2
- Gozo - Second Division Gharb R. vs Oratory Y. 1-1
Sat 21
- Premier League Marsa vs Valletta 0-3, Hibernians vs Msida SJ 0-4
- Second Division Dingli S. vs Mellieha 0-1, Zebbug R. vs St. Andrews 2-1
- Gozo - First Division Nadur Y. vs Qala SJ 3-3
- Gozo - Second Division Zebbug R. vs St. Lawrence S. 2-0
- Malta’s third UEFA Under 19 qualifying round match against Finland played in Denmark this afternoon ended in a one-all draw, with the Maltese only being denied of victory when they conceded the equaliser three minutes from time.
It had looked very bright for Malta, led from the bench by Edwin Camilleri and spearheaded on the field of play by captain Tyrone Farrugia and our chief goal-getter, Ben Camilleri.
It was the Hibernians player who gave Malta the lead in the 43rd minute, a goal which made it four in three tournament matches for this budding striker.
With France going ahead against Denmark, our boys entertained hopes of pipping the Danes for second spot on goal difference and eventual qualification for the next phase of the competition in January.
However, what looked like a legitimate second goal after Warren Chircop had the ball in the net, with the assistant referee signalling a goal, was annulled by the Irish referee who judged there was a foul on the Finland goalkeeper.
That late goal completely dashed our aspirations of qualifying for the next phase. In any case Denmark’s minimal defeat against France had already assured them of a place in the last 28 of the competition.
France topped the group table with 9 points, followed by Denmark on four, Malta on two and Finland who finished with one point.
All in all Malta should take heart from such positive showings in this quality championship. The results obtained against bigger footballing nations are a reflection of the MFA’s sound policies in the youth sector.
Fri 20
- Premier League Sliema W. vs Marsaxlokk 1-3
- Third Division Ta' Xbiex vs Zejtun C. 0-3, Qrendi vs Santa Lucia 1-0
- Mdina Knights FC official squad was unveiled on Sunday 15th October 2006. To
commemorate such event mass was celebrated at the Mdina Cathedral at 11.00am followed
by refreshments at Corte Capitanale, situated at Misrah il-Kunsill Mdina, courtesy of Mayor
Peter Sant Manduca. The players were addressed by the newly installed Honorary President
Joe Vella, whereby he expressed his satisfaction at being appointed Mdina Knights club
supremo and also furthered by pledging full commitment to MKFC.
The team has already played a number of competitive matches whereby positive results were
registered in the first season within the MFA ranks. The team is under the tutelage of former
Malta International Player Eric Schembri, which can bank on players such as skipper Charlie
Cortis former Valletta & Zebbug netminder and Matthew Francalanza former St. Lawrence
and Gozo FC player.
Being affiliated with Malta University Sports Club, the committee urges all Mdina supporters
and University students to assist the team during official matches. A full list of fixtures could
be found on the club’s official website – www.mdinaknightsfc.com. The executive committee
would also like to extend their gratitude to all corporate affiliates for their support within this
new sportive venture.
Thu 19
- Third Division Zurrieq vs Kalkara 1-2, Sirens vs Mdina K. 1-0
Wed 18
- Malta climbed thirty three places in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking following last Wednesday's victory over Hungary in the EURO 2008 qualifiers. Malta is now 111th.
For Hungary, the 2-1 defeat at Ta' Qali cost them 17 places and they are now 76th.
Amongst the other European countries, Malta is now 43rd. Just ahead of Malta are Cyprus (80th, up 23), Moldova (86th, down 1), Albania (88th, down 13), Latvia (90th, up 4), Iceland (95th, down 8) and Georgia (98th, down 5). Behind Malta are Estonia (112th, down 10), Armenia (119th, down 7), Azerbaijan (128th, down 11), Kazakhstan (135th, down 15), Liechtenstein (161st, down 6), Andorra (164th, down 4), Faroe Islands (185th, down 6), Luxembourg (193rd) and San Marino (194th).
Malta's next commitment is a friendly match against Lithuania at the Hibernians Ground on November 15.
- Two Premier League players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner.
Hibernians midfielder Clayton Failla and Floriana striker Adrian Mifsud are therefore ruled out of the games against Msida and St. George's respectively.
In Division 1, Timmy Thomas (Senglea) was suspended for two matches while Glen Buhagiar (Qormi) and Mauro Bonnici (Mqabba) were banned for one match.
Other players to be suspended were Matthew Sapiano (Melita), Yan Leo Grech (Attard), Ryan Debattista (Gharghur) and Josef Micallef (Siggiewi). Youth player Andrew Caruana (Melita) was also suspended for one match.
Tue 17
- Malta suffered a 4-2 defeat to France in the second UEFA Under-19 Group 8 mini-tournament in Vejle, Denmark on Tuesday. France now top the group standings after having beaten Finland 3-0 in their opening match on Sunday.
Nothing could go right in the first half for the young Maltese who refused to throw in the towel after trailing 4-0 at half-time. They conceded goals in the 13th, 24th, 42nd and 45th minute despite putting up a spirited performance and squandering at least three glorious scoring chances.
Their brave performance in that second period helped the team coached by Edwin Camilleri to pull back two goals and keep hoping for a salvaging act.
However, the strong French team held out and have now booked their place in the elite group matches to be played in January.
The goals for Malta were again scored by Ben Camilleri in the 65th (pen) and 76th minute.
The Maltese will be meeting Finland on Friday with their chances of proceeding further in the competition very much alive if they win, given that they have a better goal difference than Denmark, who beat Finland 4-2 on Tuesday.
Mon 16
- Premier League Floriana vs Birkirkara 1-1
- Second Division Rabat A. vs Birzebbuga SP 1-2, Melita vs Sta. Venera L. 0-1
Sun 15
- Premier League Msida SJ vs St. George's 2-0, Marsaxlokk vs Hibernians 2-1
- First Division Senglea A. vs Tarxien R. 1-1, Qormi vs Mqabba 1-1
- Second Division Gozo vs Gudja U. 0-4
- Third Division Gharghur vs Siggiewi 2-0, Attard vs Pembroke A. 0-2
- Gozo - First Division Xaghra U. vs Kercem A. 0-0
- The Malta Under-19 side held hosts Denmark in a 1-1 draw in the opening game from the qualifying round of the 2006/2007 UEFA Under-19 Championship Mini-Tournament which is being held between 15 and 20 October.
The Maltese, under the guidance of coach Edwin Camilleri, are in a four-team group which also comprises hosts, Denmark, France and Finland.
Hibernians midfielder Ben Camilleri scored for Malta.
Malta will meet France on Tuesday 17 and Finland on Friday 20. All matches kick-off at 14.00hrs (CET).
Sat 14
- Premier League Valletta vs Sliema W. 1-0, Pieta' H. vs Marsa 1-1
- Second Division Lija A. vs Zebbug R. 1-1, Mellieha vs Balzan Y. 0-2
- Gozo - First Division Ghajnsielem vs Sannat L. 1-3
- Gozo - Second Division Victoria H. vs SK Victoria W. 1-0
Fri 13
- Third Division Kirkop U. vs Xghajra T. 1-1, Gzira U. vs Ghaxaq 1-1
- The Malta Under-21 side will be playing a friendly match against the Tunisian Olympic team on November 14.
This was revealed by the Tunisian Football Federation which announced the schedule of friendly matches for the senior side and the Olympic team for the coming months.
The Under-21 sides of Malta and Tunisia had already met in a friendly match in May.
After being eliminated from the preliminary round of the UEFA Under-21 Championship 2006/07 after suffering two 1-2 defeats to Georgia, Mark Miller's side will only play competitive matches as from next season in the UEFA Under-21 Championship 2007/09.
The Under-21 Championship will no longer be linked with senior sides' competitions but the format is expected to be the same of that of senior competitions.
Thu 12
- Third Division Luqa SA vs Qrendi 2-3, Fgura U. vs Mgarr U. 0-1
- Women's League Mgarr U. vs Rabat A. 0-2
- Malta’s victory over Hungary in yesterday’s European qualifying group match was another landmark for Maltese football. Success against a traditionally strong European nation was one of our best ever achievements on the big competitive stage of world football.
The 2-1 result will remain inscribed in our annals in the long term. However, those present at the National Stadium yesterday will be proud to have witnessed a remarkably good performance by our team, which could have been rubberstamped by an emphatic scoreline if we had taken some of our chances and if we had had more luck.
It was another occasion when our National Team showed that small footballing countries like Malta, can, on particular days, spring surprises and make pundits discard the notion that in football the world order cannot be upset.
Our players, coach and technical staff deserve full credit for yesterday’s victory.
Not least those who turned up at the Stadium to give their support to our players. Special thanks go to the numerous Football Nurseries who rallied their boys into giving this wholehearted backing. It was an occasion to imbue in the youths a love for football and for our beloved National Team.
The East Stand, where the youngsters mingled with adult spectators, was a colourful sight and a reminder to the Maltese public that being constantly behind national side is vital. This was all the more remarkable after the final whistle when the Malta team had a long standing ovation from all those present.
While thanking the players and backroom boys, the Malta FA would like to show its appreciation to those present at Ta’ Qali for their excellent behaviour and for their part in making yesterday’s game a memorable occasion.
- The Malta Under 19 team will be engaged in the qualifying round of the 2006/2007 European Under-19 Championship Mini-Tournament which is being held in Denmark between 15 and 20 October, 2006.
The Maltese, under the guidance of coach Edwin Camilleri, are in a four-team group which also comprises hosts, Denmark, France and Finland.
These three nations will certainly be tough customers, all having a higher pedigree than Malta. Nevertheless, our side will try and perform to the best of their capabilities.
Malta will take on hosts Denmark on Sunday 15, France on Tuesday 17 and Finland on Friday 20. All matches kick-off at 14.00hrs (CET)
The players selected by coach Edwin Camilleri and his assistant Raymond Schembri are:
goalkeepers Henry Bonello (Sliema), Nicholas Vella (San Gwann);
Steve Bonnici (Melita), Steve Borg (Mosta), Tyrone Farrugia (Msida), Lee Galea (Floriana), Clifford Gatt Baldacchino (Sliema), Duncan Pisani (Floriana), Clive Spiteri (Valletta);
midfielders Ben Camilleri (Hibernians), Warren Chircop (Marsa), Daniel Gatt (Pietà), John Mintoff (Sliema), Mark Scerri (Sliema), Joseph Zerafa (Birkirkara);
forwards Ryan Camilleri (Pietà), Beppe Muscat (Sliema), Quelin Refalo (Pietà).
- Net Stars couldn’t have a better start in the MFA Futsal First Division league as they defeated Head Hunters 6-1 last Monday. Head Hunters are last season’s knock-out finalists and this year are once again guided by Ronald Gaerty.
Net Stars took an early lead thanks to Robert Magro. Former AJR Roadstar player, Gilbert Hill netted his first ever goal with Net Stars to make them 2-0 and before the end of the first half, Magro sealed his second goal of the match.
In the second half, Net Stars coach Charles Borg opted to field each member of the squad and the Reality Show squad increased the lead further with another three goals thanks to John Cutajar, Oliver Mallia and Jesmond Caruana. Mallia and Caruana are two new signings for Net Stars. Ismael Achami scored a consolation goal for Head Hunters from the penalty spot.
Net Stars will now play their next match on Thursday against Maltese vice-champions, European Pilot Academy, formerly known as Serbia.
For more information regarding this reality show programme, watch Net Stars next Friday at 22:30 on Net Television. Net Stars is produced and presented by Christian Micallef.
Wed 11
- EURO 2008 Malta vs Hungary 2-1
Malta registered the first win in a competitive win on home soil in over 30 years as the locals defeated Hungary 2-1 in a match from Group C of the EURO 2008 qualifying round.
Malta coach Dusan Fitzel said he has been working hard on this game for the past three weeks.
"I have been watching videos of the first two matches and travelled to Hungary to watch the game against Turkey during the weekend. This helped find a way how to play against this side," said Fitzel. "The players accepted all my recommendations and everything went as expected."
Failing to concede an early goal and the early goal helped the Maltese players build confidence according to the Malta coach.
Fitzel said this win was a team effort. "The defence played a very good game. At one point early in the second half, they seemed to start losing concentration but soon regained composure. Luke Dimech, and also Brian Said, were very good in defence, Michael Mifsud played a great game and could have scored. He likes the new position he is playing in as he finds more space. I am glad for Andre Schembri for the two goals he scored. Terence Scerri missed a good chance but the pressure on him was too big. I thank all the players for working hard for this win," said Fitzel.
Asked whether there could be any new players in the squad for future matches, Fitzel said that he has a 33-man squad at his disposal. "New players just cannot be drafted into the squad at once. A player needs at least three months training with the squad in order to be able to play for the national team," he said.
Meanwhile Hungary coach Peter Bozsik admitted Malta deserved to win. He said that although his team had a good start, they were unable to keep the same pace.
"The red card (awarded to Vanczak) made it more difficult for us and although we were a bit better in the beginning of the second half, it was all over when Malta scored the second goal," said Bozsik.
The Hungarian coach was impressed with the performance of Malta striker Michael Mifsud.
"Mifsud had excellent runs which confused our central defenders. The Maltese counter-attacks were constantly very dangerous for us," he concluded.
- The MFA Technical Centre will be organising another instructional meeting on Monday 16th October 2006 for holders of UEFA 'A', UEFA 'B', 'A' and 'B' licence coaches.
This is planned to be a theoretical session by Mr Dusan Fitzel, National Team Coach and Technical Director.
The meeting will commence at 17.30 hrs
- Third Division side Sirens FC have launched a new website www.sirensfc.tk.
The website carries the latest news and match reports from the senior team and information about the other Sirens FC and Sirens FCYN teams - the Youths, Under-14 and the Under-16 teams.
Also included is other information such as the list of committee members and the nursery training schedule.
Tue 10
- Women's League Sta. Venera L. vs Birkirkara 0-6
- Malta will be aiming at a positive performance and possibly a positive result as Dusan Fitzel's boys face Hungary in a match from Group C of the EURO 2008 Qualifying Round on Wednesday, kick-off at 19:15.
Despite a 2-5 defeat to Bosnia-Herzegovina at Ta' Qali, the performance of most of the players was good. Then in Frankfurt, the Maltese held Turkey at bay for an hour before two goals gave Fatih Terim's side the three points.
From the game against Turkey, Fitzel will be forced to make at least two changes as Sliema Wanderers duo Ian Ciantar and Ivan Woods are ruled out. Defender Ian Ciantar is nursing an injury while Ivan Woods is serving a one-match ban after receiving two yellow cards.
One player between Andrew Cohen and George Mallia should replace Woods while Kenneth Scicluna, Peter Pullicino or Ian Azzopardi could replace Ciantar.
On Monday, Fitzel dropped four players from the provisional squad - Andrew Hogg, Roderick Bajada, Christian Cassar and Claude Mattocks.
The 18-man squad is therefore made up of:
goalkeepers Justin Haber (Excelsior Virton), Mario Muscat (Hibs);
defenders Ian Azzopardi (Floriana), Luke Dimech (Marsaxlokk), Brian Said (Sliema), Kenneth Scicluna (Birkirkara), Steve Wellman (Marsaxlokk);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Trevor Cilia (Floriana), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Jamie Pace (Marsaxlokk), Peter Pullicino (Msida), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk), Gareth Sciberras (Marsaxlokk);
forwards Andrew Cohen (Hibernians), Michael Mifsud (Lillestrom), Terence Scerri (Hibernians), Andre Schembri (Marsaxlokk).
Winning in Malta is a must for Hungary after they collected just three points in three matches. After a heavy 1-4 defeat to Norway, Hungary won 3-1 in Bosnia-Herzegovina away from home. However against Turkey they lost 0-1 at home.
Hungary coach Peter Bozsik, who was appointed last March, is expected to name these players in the starting line-up:
Gabor Kiraly (Crystal Palace), Csaba Feher (PSV Eindhoven), Roland Juhasz (RSC Anderlecht), Vilmos Vanczak (K. Sint-Truidense), Peter Halmosi (Debreceni VSC), Zoltan Gera (West Bromwich Albion), Balazs Toth (Kayseri Erciyesspor), Pal Dardai (Hertha BSC Berlin), Szabolcs Huszti (Hannover 96), Sandor Torghelle (PAOK), Imre Szabics (FSV Mainz 05).
This will be the ninth game between Malta and Hungary. Malta had obtained two draws two draws in the 1990 World Cup campaign. The Hungarians won the other six matches.
Wednesday's game will be controlled by Belgian officials. The referee is Johnny Ver Eecke who will be assisted by Danny Huens and Vincent Despiegeleer and fourth official Peter Vervecken.
- The Maltese women's national team was drawn with Slovakia, Luxembourg and Lithuania in Group 3 of the newly-introduced preliminary round of the UEFA Women's Championship 2009. The draw was held in Nyon on Monday.
The four teams will be playing in a mini-tournament to be held in Luxembourg between November 18 and 23. The winners of the group will join the top 25 countries in the main group stage.
Slovakia start as firm favourites in the group after topping one of the second division groups in the recent qualifying campaign for the FIFA Women's World Cup. For Luxembourg, this will be their international debut.
Under the guidance of national coach Pierre Brincat, Malta obtained its first positive result, thanks to a 1-1 draw with Bosnia-Herzegovina at the Hibernians Ground last June.
Mon 9
- Second Division Sta. Venera L. vs Rabat A. 3-0, St. Andrews vs Dingli S. 0-4
Sun 8
- First Division San Gwann vs Naxxar L. 1-1, Hamrun S. vs Mosta 2-0
- Second Division Zebbug R. vs Gudja U. 0-0, Birzebbuga SP vs Mellieha 1-0
- Third Division Zejtun C. vs Sirens 0-1, Sta. Lucia vs Ta' Xbiex 1-0
- Gozo - First Division Qala SJ vs Xaghra U. 1-5, Xewkija T. vs Nadur Y. 2-6
- >Dr. Ian Miller is the first Maltese international Futsal referee to be given an appointment by UEFA.
On Tuesday, he will be leave Malta for Split, in Croatia, to take charge of matches in a mini-tournament for the 2006/2007 UEFA FUTSAL CUP.
Teams from Croatia, Greece, Sweden and Azerbaijan will be taking part.
Sat 7
- First Division Tarxien R. vs Vittoriosa S. 3-1, St. Patrick vs Qormi 0-2
- Third Division Kalkara vs Attard 1-0, Mdina K. vs Zurrieq 0-0
- Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs Kercem A. 0-2
- Gozo - Second Division Gharb R. vs St. Lawrence S. 2-1
Fri 6
- Second Division Siggiewi vs Ghaxaq 1-0, Pembroke A. vs Gharghur 0-1
- Sliema Wanderers duo Ian Ciantar and Ivan Woods are ruled out for Malta as the national team takes on Hungary on Wednesday in a match from Group C of the EURO 2008 Qualifying Round.
Defender Ian Ciantar is nursing an injury while Ivan Woods is serving a one-match ban after receiving two yellow cards. On a positive note is the return of Hibernians striker Andrew Cohen who missed the last three matches - the friendly against Slovakia in August and the EURO 2008 qualifiers against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Turkey last month.
Speaking during a press conference on Friday, MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud said that although Malta started with two defeats, the performances so far were quite satisfactory although some goals could have been avoided. He said the performances show that the team is on the right track and with the players making the maximum effort and the support of the local public, the association looks forward towards good performances and positive results.
Dr Mifsud said Hungary was one of the countries against which Malta had managed to obtain good results in past - two draws in the 1990 World Cup campaign. The Hungarians won the other six matches.
After this game, Malta will be playing two friendly matches against Lithuania in November and against Austria in February, before Malta plays another two EURO 2008 qualifiers against Moldova and Greece towards the end of March.
Speaking on behalf of Dusan Fitzel who is abroad, assistant coach Mark Miller said the locals will be trying their best to get a good result from the game.
Captain Gilbert Agius said the game will be another difficult one, considering that Hungary defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 3-1 away from home after that the latter had beaten Malta 5-2 at Ta' Qali.
The provisional 22-man squad selected by Fitzel is made up of:
goalkeepers Justin Haber (Excelsior Virton), Andrew Hogg (Pietà), Mario Muscat (Hibs);
defenders Ian Azzopardi (Floriana), Luke Dimech (Marsaxlokk), Brian Said (Sliema), Kenneth Scicluna (Birkirkara), Steve Wellman (Marsaxlokk);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Roderick Bajada (Sliema), Christian Cassar (Floriana), Trevor Cilia (Floriana), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Claude Mattocks (Sliema), Jamie Pace (Marsaxlokk), Peter Pullicino (Msida), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk), Gareth Sciberras (Marsaxlokk);
forwards Andrew Cohen (Hibernians), Michael Mifsud (Lillestrom), Terence Scerri (Hibernians), Andre Schembri (Marsaxlokk).
Wednesday's game will be controlled by Belgian officials. The referee is Johnny Ver Eecke who will be assisted by Danny Huens and Vincent Despiegeleer and fourth official Peter Vervecken.
Match ticket prices are as follows: West Sides A & C - Upper - Lm 7;
West Sides A & C - Lower - Lm 4;
Millennium Stand - Lm 3;
Ladies, Children (Under 11), Kartanzjan Holders and Persons with Special Needs Card Holders and Persons on Wheelchair (in Millennium Stand only) - Lm 2.
Pre-Sale of tickets starts on Friday 6th and will continue up to mid-day on match-day on Wednesday. The following are the Authorised Ticket Retailers: Geraldu Kiosk (Republic Street, Valletta); Eros Stationery (Wilga Street, Paceville), Star Tourism (Pioneer Road, Bugibba) and the National Stadium.
Tickets will also be available at the gates just before the match. The gates at the National Stadium will open at 18:00.
At around 18:10, entertainment will be provided by a number of singers, namely Annabelle and Cliff Zammit, Mark Spiteri Lucas, Sofie, Stef Tanti, Olivia Lewis and Kevin Borg. The entertainment is being provided by Events Services. Peter Busuttil will be Master of Ceremonies.
- The final joint-offer by Public Broadcasting Services, Super One and Net Television amounted to only 25% of the total sum the three stations had paid for the last two years. The previous contract expired at the end of last season.
This was revealed by MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud during a press conference on Friday.
Dr Mifsud said that after the association had issued a tender document for the sale of the media rights of the National League matches as well as the home matches of the Malta National 'A' team - four different packages meant for television and radio stations and another for mobile phone operators. Dr Mifsud said the association's objective was to provide a better product. For example, while filming of matches was being carried out by two cameras, according to the bidding document, those who were interested in filming football matches were due to have at least four cameras. However no company was interested.
A few weeks later, three free-to-air stations - TVM, Super One and Net Television came up with a proposal of joining forces and make a joint-bid. However their offer was just a fraction of what the three stations altogether used to pay before to obtain the rights. The association replied that it was ready to renew the previous contracts at the same amounts the stations used to pay.
At that point, the MFA had not yet reached any other agreement with any other stations as regards television rights.
The association then started discussions with Melita Cable who were ready to screen live a number of matches. The Executive Committee decided to try this experiment, knowing that such experiment had its pros and cons.
As regards a contract concerning PBS, Super One and Net, the MFA was not ready to accept a lower sum. PBS were no longer obliged to film national team matches and other matches as stipulated by the previous contracts. The three stations were being offered the chance to screen national team matches for free.
The three stations claimed the draft contract which the MFA sent by email had not been received. When another copy was sent, the three stations asked for some changes in a few conditions and increased the sum slightly.
Dr Mifsud said that this amounted to 25% of the total sum the three stations used to pay before but did not reveal the exact amount.
The sum should be around Lm 6,000 since before Super One and Net used to pay Lm 6,000 each and PBS Lm 12,000 for a total of Lm 24,000.
The association started discussions with Smash Television and the two parties reached an agreement for the filming to all Premier League matches, except for those screened by Melita Cable.
Dr Mifsud said that unlike foreign countries, where there is currently a battle for a directive which would state that television stations should get for free one minute of footage of entertainment of news value, locally, television stations are denying televiewers even the possibility of knowing the scores.
In fact since the BOV Premier League kicked-off in August, TVM/Radju Malta, Super One Radio and One Television, Net Television and Radio 101 are not giving any results or news related to local football.
At this point, RTK is the only radio who is giving live commentaries from Ta' Qali after renewing the previous contract. Melita Sports is screening live a total of 35 BOV Premier League or U*BET FA Trophy matches and national team matches while Smash Television is screening a film of BOV Premier League matches, usually at around 22:00.
- In the second Under-17 friendly international match in two days played at Ta’ Qali Training Grounds this evening, Malta and Northern Ireland shared four goals in a combative and balanced encounter which produced some good fare from both sides.
Malta went ahead in the 2nd minute when Mark Scerri converted a penalty. The Irish equalized 15 minutes later through Sean Ferry.
Exchanges remained balanced in the second half, with Ryan O’Neill putting the visitors ahead. The Maltese reacted and 16 minutes from time Mark Scerri netted his second goal for a deserved equalizer.
These two friendlies were a useful work-out for both teams in view of their commitments in the Euro 2007 U-17 Championship qualifying group matches. In the first match on Tuesday Malta lost 2-1.
Malta will be hosting Italy, Andorra and Serbia between 17 and 22 November 2006.
- FIFA Referee Mr Anton Zammit has been appointed as referee in the Euro 2008 Qualifying Group E match between Croatia and Andorra.
The match is being played at the Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb on Saturday October 7.
FIFA Assistant Referees Messrs Philip Agius and Konrad G. Borg have been appointed as assistant referees, while Joe Attard will act as fourth official.
Thu 5
- Second Division Melita vs Zebbug R. 2-2
Wed 4
- Sparkling performances backed by five goals in three matches during September earned the Msida St. Joseph forward Ibrahim Babatunde, the BOV Player of the Month.
This lanky striker has played a vital role in spearheading Msida’s bright start to the season which sees them among the front-runners in the title race.
Babatunde’s pace and dexterity on either flank and his eye for goal are fast becoming the weapons which every Premier team is envious of.
Msida will no doubt stand to benefit from the qualities of this Nigerian player. Given that he maintains this streak of excellent form the team will be a good bet to maintain their title-challenging stance come next April.
- The Malta Football Association announced changes in the fixtures of the Women's League due to the national team's commitments in the UEFA Women’s Championship 2007/2009 which will be played in a new format.
In fact according to the new format, Malta will be playing in the preliminary round mini-tournament which will be held between the 18th and 23rd November.
The whole programme of the Women's League has been adjusted in order to allow the national team to prepare for the competition. No league matches will be played between November 7 and 22.
- The Malta Under-19 side suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to the Messina primavera side at the Stadio San Filippo on Wednesday.
Ruiz put Messina ahead on the 14th minute with a diagonal shot.
Dylan Zarb went close to equalising for Malta early in the second half but on the 58th minute, Montalto doubled the score for Messina, after receiving a long through pass by Tummiolo.
Malta reduced the gap on the 61st with a long distance shot by Tyrone Farrugia.
The team maintained the attacking tempo in the latter stages of the match and were unfortunate not to level matters when they twice hit the woodwork, the efforts coming from Dylan Zarb and Tyrone Farrugia.
Commenting after the match, coach Edwin Camilleri said he was satisfied by the effort put in by his players in preparation of the forthcoming UEFA Under-19 Championship mini-tournament in Denmark between October 15th and 20th. In Denmark, Malta will face France, Finland and hosts Denmark.
MESSINA: Ferla (68' Paterniti) – Giacobbe – Bombara (66' Triolo) – Tummiolo (65' Provenzano) – De Salvo – Bossa – Milanese (75' Roccazzella) – Di Salvo (65' Schepis ) – Angotti – Ruiz (38’ Potestio) – Montalto (65' Pistone).
MALTA: Henry Bonello (70' Nicholas Vella) – Duncan Pisani – Ben Camilleri – Cliff Gatt Baldacchino (81' Daniel Gatt) – Steve Borg – Tyrone Farrugia – Ryan Camilleri – Warren Chircop (46' Dylan Zarb; 60' Quelin Refalo) – Clive Spiteri (46' Fabian Debono) – Lee Galea (46' David Cauchi) – Joseph Zerafa (46' John Mintoff).
- Birkirkara striker Etienne Barbara and Marsa midfielder Victor Bellia were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner.
Barbara will therefore miss the game against Floriana on October 16 while Bellia is ruled out of the game against Pietà Hotspurs on October 14.
Pietà Hotspurs coach Alfred Cutajar was suspended for two matches.
Keith Portelli (Luqa) and Lizio Grech (Xghajra) were suspended for one match in Division 3.
Marsa's Warren Chircop was handed a two-match ban in the Youth League while Andrew Caruana Scicluna (Melita) and Luca Ellul (St. Andrews) were suspended for one match.
- Brazilian-born midfielder Leandro has returned to the Hungary squad for the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers against Turkey and Malta following an injury to Zsolt Low.
The 24-year-old Debreceni VSC player, who has five caps, has received his first call-up since Peter Bozsik was appointed coach in March. He will fill the gap left by Low's absence. Vilmos Sebok, Peter Halmosi, Attila Polonkai, Peter Kabat and Imre Szabics should all play after recovering from injuries. Hungary take on Turkey in Budapest on 7 October before travelling to Ta' Qali to face Malta four days later.
The Hungarian squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Gabor Kiraly (Crystal Palace), Marton Fülop (Tottenham Hotspur);
defenders Csaba Feher (PSV Eindhoven), Zoltan Kiss (Debreceni VSC), Laszlo Eger (Polideportivo Ejido), Vilmos Vanczak (K. Sint-Truidense), Roland Juhasz (RSC Anderlecht), Vilmos Sebok (Zalaegerszegi TE);
midfielders Leandro (Debreceni VSC), Peter Halmosi (Debreceni VSC), Pal Dardai (Hertha BSC Berlin), Balazs Molnar (Zalaegerszegi TE), Andras Horvath (FC Sopron), Balazs Toth (Kayseri Erciyesspor), Szabolcs Huszti (Hannover 96), Peter Kabat (FCS Pasching), Attila Polonkai (Rakospalotai EAC) and
forwards Zoltan Gera (West Bromwich Albion), Thomas Sowunmi (FC Slovacko), Peter Czvitkovics (MTK Hungaria), Sandor Torghelle (PAOK), Imre Szabics (FSV Mainz 05).
Mon 2
- Second Division Melita vs Gozo 3-0, Lija A. vs St. Andrews 3-1
- Malta will be hosting Group C of the 2007 UEFA European Futsal Championship Preliminary Round between January 15th and 21st. In its first participation, Malta will be facing Georgia, Cyprus and Kazakhstan.
The draw for the preliminary and qualifying round were made by UEFA Futsal Committee chairman Petr Fousek and UEFA Head of National Team Competitions Mikael Salzer in Nyon on Monday. A record 36 teams entering the tournament.
There are three groups in the preliminary round. The winners of each preliminary round group, plus the two best runners-up, progress to the qualifying round.
The winners of Group C will be meeting the Czech Republic, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Earlier this year, the Malta Football Association has appointed Michal Striz as national coach.
- The Malta Under-19 side will travel to Sicily on Tuesday to play a friendly match against the primavera side of Messina Calcio on Wednesday in Messina. The game kicks-off at 14:30.
This match forms part of the team's preparation in view of the UEFA Under-19 Championship mini-tournament which will be played in Denmark between October 15th and 20th. In Denmark, Malta will face France, Finland and hosts Denmark.
The players who will travel to Sicily are:
Lee Galea, Duncan Pisani (Floriana); Ben Camilleri (Hibernians); David Cauchi (Mellieha); Steve Borg (Mosta); Tyron Farrugia (Msida); Ryan Camilleri, Quelin Refalo, Domenic Mifsud (Pietà);
Nicholas Vella (San Gwann); Henry Bonello, Clifford Gatt Baldacchino, John Mintoff (Sliema); Fabian Debono (Naxxar); Clive Spiteri, Dylan Zarb (Valletta); Joseph Zerafa (Birkirkara); Warren Chircop (Marsa).
Accompanying the squad will be Ivan Vella, coaches Edwin Camilleri and Ray Schembri, team doctor Dr. Aaron Formosa and Gordon Scicluna.
The contingent returns to Malta on Wednesday evening.
- The Malta Under-17 side lost 0-2 to Northern Ireland in the first of two friendly matches at the Ta’ Qali Training Grounds.
They trailed 1-0 at half-time after Owen Bugeja netted an own goal in the 37th minute. At that stage the Irish were slightly the better side.
Exchanges were balanced after ends were changed, but Matthew Ferris rounded up the score with a second goal scored in the 58th minute.
The Malta Under 17 team, under coach Oliver Spiteri, are to play the second match on Thursday evening at the same venue with a kick-off time at 18.00 hrs.
These two friendlies are in preparation for the forthcoming mini-tournament valid for the European Under 17 Championship 2007 to be played in Malta between the 17th and 22nd November 2006. The other teams in Malta’s group are Andorra, Italy and Serbia.
- Twenty-one year old Elliott Navarro was recently offered the opportunity to join an English semi-professional club Berkhampstead FC for a 6 to 8 week training camp with the opportunity of moving to another club at the end of this camp.
This offer was made to Navarro by Pearl Wayne, one of the scouts who is taking care of the young Maltese player in all the UK trials. The scout believes that the Maltese 6ft 2 winger will have a better chance with the tough training.
In the meantime, Elliott Navarro has been offered a trail with a conference team Lewes FC and is also waiting the confirmation of the date for a trial with Exeter City. In fact, the hard work during his stay in the UK has opened a lot of doors for the player. Navarro has also been offered a trial at Oldham Athletic. He has put on hold offers by a local Premier and First Division club in order to wait for the outcome of these trials.
Coach JJ Aquilina has been helping the player in recent weeks by giving him individual training during his free time.
Meanwhile Football Frenzy are adjusting their training programmes so that young players which they will be sending to the UK in future will be more prepared to do well there with the possibility of joining a club in the UK.
Sun 1
- Premier League St. George's vs Marsaxlokk 1-5, Sliema W. vs Pietà H. 4-1
- First Division Senglea A. vs San Gwann 1-1, Mqabba vs Hamrun S. 1-2
- Second Division Mellieha vs Sta. Venera L. 3-1, Balzan Y. vs Dingli S. 0-4
- Third Division Mgarr U. vs Kirkop U. 1-1, Xghajra T. vs Gzira U. 0-1
- Gozo - First Division Xaghra U. vs Nadur Y. 0-1
- Gozo - Second Division Victoria H. vs Oratory Y. 3-2