March 2007
Sat 31
- Premier League Birkirkara vs Hibernians 2-1, Valletta vs Msida SJ 1-1
- First Division Tarxien R. vs Senglea A. 2-0, Mqabba vs Qormi 3-2
- Second Division Melita vs Rabat A. 3-1, St. Andrews vs Sta. Venera L. 2-1
- Third Division Fgura U. vs Attard 1-1, Luqa SA vs Gharghur 1-0
- Gozo - Jum il-Helsien Cup Sannat L. vs Nadur Y. 0-3
Fri 30
- The Malta Under 17 national team will be taking part in an international triangular tournament at the MFA Training Grounds, Ta’ Qali, between Tuesday 3rd April and Saturday 7th April.
The other countries taking part are Cyprus and San Marino.
The event will be another opportunity for coach Oliver Spiteri to take stock of the players available and prepare them for the 7th UEFA U-17 Championship 2007/08 qualifying round matches scheduled between the 21st and 26th October 2007. Besides Malta the teams in the group are England, Portugal and Estonia.
Fixtures for next week’s triangular tournament are as follows:
Tuesday 3.04.07 11.00 hrs San Marino v Cyprus
Thursday 5.04.07 11.00 hrs Malta v San Marino
Saturday 7.04.07 11.00 hrs Malta v Cyprus
All matches will be played at the MFA Training Grounds. Entrance is free.
- The President and the Council of the Malta Football Association would like to thank all those who attended the National Stadium to support the national team in the game against Greece and for the excellent atmosphere created before and during the game.
The MFA would like to show its appreciation towards the different Supporters Clubs for their support and the local media for its support towards the MFA and the national team for this game.
While making sure that the national team will have the best possible preparation for the coming matches, the MFA hopes that spectators will once again turn out in thousands for the remaining home matches from the EURO 2008 and that the atmosphere at Ta' Qali will be the same as the that of last Wednesday's game.
Thu 29
- Gozo - First Division Xewkija T. vs Kercem A. 3-2
Wed 28
- EURO 2008 Malta vs Greece 0-1
Although Malta ended empty-handed after the EURO 2008 qualifier against Greece, Malta coach Dusan Fitzel said he was proud of his players.
Fitzel revealed that he was expecting that the game would turn out like that. He said that from a defensive point of view, Malta played an excellent match. However he admitted that the team need to improve, mainly by creating more chances.
The Malta coach admitted that now that the team is doing quite well, opponents are being more cautious and know how to stop the Maltese players, such as Michael Mifsud who is now well known as being a very fast player.
Fitzel avoided being withdrawn into the argument whether the penalty decision was a fair one or not.
"It is the referee who decides. Following Roderick Briffa's red card, it was clear that it was all over for us. It was already difficult to score with eleven players, let alone with ten men."
"I am proud of the players. The players are upset with result but I am proud that I changed the mentality. I know they played with their hearts. We are on the good track," concluded Fitzel who also said that he was glad to see such a large number of spectators and a beautiful atmosphere are Ta' Qali.
Meanwhile Greece coach Otto Rehhagel said that after the defeat to Turkey, his main objective was that of re-building the confidence in his players. He said that he aimed at preparing the team for victory and the objective was achieved although he admitted that they missed several chances.
- Gozo - Second Division Oratory Y. vs St. Lawrence S. 3-2, SK Victoria W. vs Gharb R. 8-4
- During the second week of March, a group of coaches from Birkirkara F.C. Youth Nursery together with Nursery chairman Mr Henry Bray, had the opportunity to attend a Football Coaching Course at Atalanta BC Headquarters in Zingonia, Bergamo.
Throughout their five-day visit in Italy, the Maltese contingent met Atalanta Settore Giovanile coaches with whom they exchanged ideas and observed most of their training sessions held during the week. Instructional meetings conducted by Atalanta’s professional coaches namely Stefano Bonaccorso and Andrea Pandolfi were delivered both on and off the field whilst the Birkirkara coaches also experienced a selection exercise conducted by Atalanta’s professional technical staff and even had time to note, listen and discuss the subject of recruiting youngsters with one of Atalanta’s Chief Scouts.
The delegation was also invited to visit “La Casa dei Giovani” - today, the home of twenty young talented players who form part in Atalanta’s Youth teams and at present, are living away from home. Dott. Lucia Castelli, a physiologist who works with the club, explained and talked about the problems encountered at youth sector level. Her full time work with Atalanta included handling any difficulties which the boys may have at home or school apart from keeping relation coach vs parents in good shape.
At the end of the stage, the whole group was granted special permission to watch the first team play against Parma at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia. The list of participants during this memorable experience was: Henry Bray, Franco Agius, Charles Borg, Robert Bray and Oliver Mallia.
Tue 27
- Under-21 Friendly Malta vs Sweden 2-1
- After beating Hungary 2-1 and holding Moldova in a 1-1 draw, Malta will be aiming for another positive performance and possibly another positive result as it takes on European champions Greece this evening at Ta' Qali in another match from Group C of the EURO 2008 qualifiers.
Malta coach Dusan Fitzel will be forced to make at least one change from the team which held Moldova last Saturday as Ian Azzopardi replaces the suspended Luke Dimech.
Ivan Woods suffered a slight injury but should make it to the starting line-up. Otherwise his place would be taken by Kevin Sammut.
Besides Dimech, Andrew Hogg and Gareth Sciberras are also out of the squad. The Pietà goalkeeper is sick while Sciberras is missing due to a family mourning as his father passed away earlier this week.
Fitzel is therefore expected to name the following players in the starting line-up: Justin Haber - Roderick Briffa, Brian Said, Kenneth Scicluna, Ian Azzopardi - Gilbert Agius, Ivan Woods, George Mallia, Jamie Pace - Michael Mifsud, Andre Schembri
The other players in the squad are goalkeeper Mario Muscat, defender Josef Mifsud, midfielders Peter Pullicino, Roderick Bajada and Kevin Sammut and strikers Etienne Barbara and Daniel Bogdanovic.
Meanwhile Greece coach Otto Rehhagel is expected to make a couple of changes from the team which lost heavily to rivals Turkey on Saturday.
Loukis Vintra and Fanis Gekas are set to replace Takis Fyssas and Angelos Charisteas. Vassilios Torosidis should start in lieu of the injured Seitaridis.
The starting line-up should therefore be: Antonios Nikopolidis, Trainos Dellas, Sotirios Kyrgiakos, Vassilios Torosidis, Loukas Vintra, Kostantinos Kastouranis, Angelos Basinas, Stylios Giannakopoulos, Fanis Gekas, Georgios Samaras.
Mon 26
- Third Division Xghajra T. vs Sirens 1-1, Kirkop U. vs Zurrieq 0-2
- Malta coach Dusan Fitzel named an eighteen-man squad for Wednesday's EURO 2008 Group C qualifier against Greece.
From the 20 players who travelled to Moldova last week, Andrew Hogg, Luke Dimech and Gareth Sciberras are no longer in squad. Luke Dimech is suspended after being sent off on Saturday. The Pietà goalkeeper is sick while Sciberras is missing due to a family mourning.
Marsaxlokk midfielder Peter Pullicino is back after missing the trip to Moldova while Etienne Barbara makes it to the final squad after being left out of the 18-man squad for Saturday's game.
The squad is therefore made up of:
goalkeepers Justin Haber (Marsaxlokk), Mario Muscat (Hibernians);
defenders Ian Azzopardi (Floriana), Roderick Briffa (Birkirkara), Josef Mifsud (Msida), Peter Pullicino (Marsaxlokk), Brian Said (Sliema), Kenneth Scicluna (Birkirkara);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Roderick Bajada (Sliema), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Jamie Pace (Marsaxlokk), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk);
forwards Etienne Barbara (Birkirkara), Daniel Bogdanovic (Marsaxlokk), Michael Mifsud (Coventry), Andre Schembri (Marsaxlokk), Ivan Woods (Sliema).
Malta vs Greece will be played at the National Stadium on Wednesday, kick-off at 19:30. The match will be controlled by referee Pedro Oliveira Alves Garcia, assisted by Paulo Januario Leite Ribeiro and Jose Garcias Bolinhas Trigo and fourth official Manuel Neves Mreira De Sousa.
Match ticket prices are as follows: West Sides A & C - Upper - Lm 10;
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.
North Stand - Lm 2.
Tickets are available from the following Authorised Ticket Retailers: Geraldu Kiosk - Republic Street, Valletta; Eros Stationery - Wilga Street, Paceville; Star Tourism - Pioneer Road, Bugibba and National Stadium - Ta' Qali up to mid-day on Wednesday. Tickets will also be available at the gates just before the match.
The gates at the National Stadium will open at 18:15.
Public transport from City Gate to the National Stadium starts at 18:00. Public transport will also be available from the National Stadium back to City Gate at the end of the match.
At around 18:30, entertainment will be provided by a number of singers, namely Klinsman Coleiro and his band and Olivia Lewis. The entertainment is being provided by Events Services. Peter Busuttil will be Master of Ceremonies.
- The Malta Under-21 side will be hosting Sweden in a friendly match at the Hibs Ground on Tuesday, kick-off at 16:45. This will be the second game in five days for Mark Miller's side after they lost 2-0 to Moldova.
These games are part of the team's preparation for the coming UEFA Under-21 Championship 2007/09 qualifiers which get underway in June. Malta was drawn in a group with Wales, Romania, France and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Miller is expected to field the same eleven players who started the game in Tiraspol, namely Miguel Montfort, Edmond Agius, Steven Bezzina, Andrei Agius, Tyrone Farrugia, Jonathan Caruana, Matthew Bartolo, Paul Fenech, Ian Zammit, Ryan Fenech, Dyson Falzon.
The full list of players at his disposal is:
goalkeepers Michael Falzon (Hamrun), Miguel Montfort (Valletta);
defenders Andrei Agius (Martina Franca), Steven Bezzina (Valletta), Ryan Camilleri (Pietà), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Tyrone Farrugia (Msida), Justin Grioli (Valletta);
midfielders Edmond Agius (Hibs), Matthew Bartolo (Hibs), Dyson Falzon (Valletta), Paul Fenech (Msida), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), Julian Vella (Hibs);
forwards Edward Herrera (Pietà), Stephen Meilak (Hamrun), Andrew Scerri (Marsa), Ian Zammit (Valletta).
The Swedish squad is made up of: Johan Dahlin (FC Lyn), Robin Malmqvist (Östers IF), Mattias Bjärsmyr (IFK Göteborg), Marcus Falk-Olander (IF Elfsborg), Tibor Joza (Halmstads BK), Oskar Rönningberg (Helsingborgs IF), Tom Siwe (SC Heerenveen), Gustav Svensson (IFK Göteborg), Jesper Westerberg (Halmstads BK), Sebastian Castro-Tello (Hammarby), Imad Khalili (Helsingborgs IF), Rawez Lawan (AC Horsens), Ajsel Kujovic (Halmstads BK), Kristoffer Näfver (Örebro SK FK), Marcus Pode (Malmö FF), Joakim Sjöhage (IF Elfsborg), Ola Toivonen (Malmö FF), Andres Vasquez (IFK Göteborg), Pontus Wernbloom (IFK Göteborg), Robert Åhman Persson (AIK).
Malta vs Sweden will be controlled by referee Anton Zammit, assisted by assistant referees Konrad Borg and Joe Camilleri and fourth official Paul Caruana.
Sun 25
- First Division Naxxar L. vs San Gwann 2-4, Vittoriosa S. vs Tarxien R. 4-1, Qormi vs St. Patrick 0-1
- Second Division Balzan Y. vs Lija A. 1-0, Gudja U. vs Mellieha 0-2, Gozo vs Sta. Venera L. 1-2
- Third Division Gzira U. vs Qrendi 0-3, Mgarr U. vs Ta' Xbiex 7-0
- Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs Ghajnsielem 2-1
- Atletico Madrid defender Yourkas Seitaridis and Eintracht Frankfurt striker Yannis Amanatidis will miss Wednesday's European Championship qualifier against Malta because of injury.
Seitaridis and Amanatidis were both injured in the humiliating 4-1 home defeat to Turkey on Saturday, and no replacements were called up for the Malta match.
Turkey went in level at halftime before three goals in the second period wrapped up the points and gave them the edge over their Greek rivals in the table with 12 points from four games.
Greece took the lead after five minutes thanks to defender Sotiris Kyrgiakos but Turkey kept finding space on the left flank from which to launch counter attacks and looked dangerous despite the noise from a fiery 33,000 sell-out crowd at the Karaiskakis stadium.
The visitors equalised with a goal by Tuncay Sanli on 27 minutes. Gokhan Unal added a second in the 55th before Metin Tumer made it three with a solo effort with 20 minutes left. Gokdeniz Karadeniz scored the fourth in the 80th within a minute of coming on with a sparkling sprint down the left before he slotted the ball past Nikopolidis.
Greece's players and coach Otto Rehhagel faced rare criticism. The German coach was accused of making insufficient changes to the 2004 lineup, resulting in a team with an average age of nearly 30.
Greece are therefore in desperate need of a psychological tonic after their defeat and in view of potential punishment by UEFA for scuffles among Greece fans in the stands, some of whom threw objects on the pitch.
"This is the time that we must be strong. There is no excuse for conceding four goals and we must now win in Malta and get our qualification bid back on track," Bolton's Stelios Giannakopoulos said. Defender Traianos Dellas added, "We will win against Malta, we must remain united and we will qualify."
Rehhagel is expected to make changes with in-form Fanis Gekas replacing Angelos Haristeas in attack and Loukas Vyntra starting instead of Takis Fyssas.
- The Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery is going to organise the Tony Bajada Memorial Football Tournament, being held between Wednesday 4th and Wednesday 10th April 2007 at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, were 23 teams from 13 nurseries from Malta and one from Bulgaria will be participating.
This football tournament is organised every season during the Easter holidays. Over a period of five days, 67 matches will be played and over 300 players from four categories, (Under-6, Under-8, Under-10 and Under-13), will participate in this event, and play on natural turf.
Being in its sixth edition, this football tournament has now become one of the most popular in Malta, since when applications were opened they were booked in a matter of few weeks. The participants for this year are; B’Kara, PFC Botev Plovdiv, Floriana, Hamrun Sp, Lija-Iklin, Kirkop Utd., Mosta, Naxxar L., Pieta H, San Gwann, St.Andrews, St.Venera Utd, Valletta and Zebbug R.
Whist acknowledging the competitive spirit by which participants take part, we firmly believe that the scope of such a tournament remains first and foremost, that of delivering to the players a positive experience in an appropriate and conductive environment. In addition, we emphasise the fact that all matches are played in a FAIR PLAY atmosphere and that all players registered for the tournament, will all have their turn to play for their team.
The programme kicks off on Wednesday 4th with a mass celebrated at the Immaculate Conception Church in Manuel Magri Street in Hamrun at 8:15am, followed by a march pass with the Nurseries’ flags to the Victor Tedesco Stadium, where after a short opening celebration, the first matches begin at 10:30am. The tournament will proceed on Thursday and Saturday, but halts on Good Friday and Easter Sunday for the festive break and resumes on Monday with the semi finals. On Tuesday there will be the under 8, under 10 and the under 13 semi finals, followed by the four finals, after which the presentation to the winners and participants will take place. The under 13 winners will be presented with the ‘Tony Bajada Challenge Cup’ by Mrs Violet Bajada, in which they will keep for one year.
The Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery wish to publicly express their gratitude to the tournament’s sponsors – Globalair Travel Ltd, Farsons plc, von Brockdorff Imports Ltd and the Hamrun Local Council, who made it possible for these young footballers and their parents to enjoy this memorable week, during the Easter holidays. The organising committee would also like to show their appreciation to the Bajada family, Hamrun Spartans FC Executive Committee, the Ground Management Board, The Youth FA, the Amateur, Youth and Grassroots Committee and all the participating Nurseries for their support.
Sat 24
- EURO 2008 Moldova vs Malta 1-1
- Second Division Rabat A. vs St. Andrews 0-1, Birzebbuga SP vs Zebbug R. 1-0
Fri 23
- Under-21 International Friendly Moldova vs Malta 2-0
- Third Division Pembroke A. vs Zejtun C. 0-0, Kalkara vs Mdina K. 1-1
- Malta will be aiming at continuing their EURO 2008 campaign with another good performance and possibly another positive result as Dusan Fitzel's side takes on Moldova this evening at the Zimbru Stadium in Chisinau.
After suffering defeats to Bosnia-Herzegovina at Ta' Qali and Turkey in Frankfurt, Malta collected its first three points in Group C after beating Hungary 2-1 at Ta' Qali, goals courtesy of Marsaxlokk striker Andre Schembri.
From the team which defeated Hungary, there should be two changes as Roderick Briffa and Ian Azzopardi should replace Stephen Wellman and Kenneth Scicluna. The starting line-up is in fact expected to be: Justin Haber, Ian Azzopardi, Roderick Briffa, Luke Dimech, Brian Said, Jamie Pace, Gilbert Agius, Kevin Sammut, George Mallia, Michael Mifsud, Andre Schembri.
Also at Fitzel's disposal are goalkeepers Andrew Hogg and Mario Muscat, defenders Josef Mifsud and Kenneth Scicluna, midfielders Roderick Bajada and Gareth Sciberras and strikers Etienne Barbara, Daniel Bogdanovic and Ivan Woods.
This will be the first time Malta and Moldova will be facing each other in a competitive match as the previous five encounters were friendly matches or matches from the Malta International Tournament. Malta won one match, Moldova won three, the other match ending in a draw.
The game kicks-off at 18:00 Malta time and will be screened live on Melita Sports.
- In two separate press conferences, held in the space of forty minutes, Moldova coach Igor Dobrovolski and Malta coach Dusan Fitzel addressed a fully packed press room at the Jolly Alon Hotel Chisinau where the Malta players are also lodging.
Igor Dobrovolski explained that unfortunately for tomorrow's game against Malta, he will have five key players missing, some with suspension and some ruled out due to injury. Urmaritz is suspended whilst the other four are injured. Covalcukin considered to be the best Moldavian player at the moment who plays for Spartak Moscow is amongst the list of injured players and will not make it for the Malta game.
Visibly tensed Dobrovolski faced hot questions from the floor on the eve of his international competitive match debut as Moldova coach. In fact, his baptism on the Moldova bench was on 7th February in a friendly against Romania where his side lost 2-0, suffering both goals in the last minutes of the game. Asked if he is feeling any pressure on him on the eve of this game, he replied "I do not have any pressure not even the players are feeling any pressure we are prepared for this game and that's it."
On the other hand, Malta coach Dusan Fitzel, who was flanked by captain Gilbert Agius and vice captain Brian Said, was very short in his answers to the Moldova press. He admitted that he has been studying some videos of Moldova. He did not give and indication how his tactical formation will be.
Gilbert Agius commented that this is not his first time that he is playing against Moldova and said that it will be a difficult match.
Brian Said confirmed that the spirit in the team is a positive one and looked eagerly to the afternoon training session to continue his preparation together with his mates for this game.
Maltese players will train at the Zimbru Stadium at 18:30 after which Fitzel might be in a position to reveal his official starting line up.
- Maltese international Michael Mifsud is really confident that Malta will manage to obtain a positive result against our Moldovian counterparts in the EURO 2008 qualifying game.
Speaking to Melita sports journalists and other local journalist present in Chisinau the Maltese stalwart visibly expectant confirmed that within the Malta team at the moment there is high optimism that the lads will not come empty handed back to Malta. Mifsud was speaking to journalists just after the evening training session held under constant rain in a local training ground.
"They have three very good strikers but they are not that sharp at the back, and therefore we should try to press and attack them when in possession of the ball" commented Michael Mifsud.
On the other hand, he still admitted the fact that Moldova are still a strong squad which possesses even individual football talent who play with teams abroad in the Russian and Romanian league. Asked how he thinks will be the best logistic tactic to play against Moldova, Michael replied "We have to keep the ball in our possession as much as possible and keep on fighting for each other and cover our own mistakes".
Michael is a definite starter for Fitzel's lads. Malta probable formation will be the following: Haber, Azzopardi, Briffa, Dimech, Said, Pace, Agius, Sammut, Mallia, Mifsud, Schembri.
- Moldova national team coach Igor Dobrovolski was quoted in the local newspapers as he is well prepared for an eventful loss against Malta in the EURO 2008 qualifier scheduled for Saturday 24th March at 18:00 CET at the Zimbru stadium in Chisinau.
Dobrovolski told Journal de Chisnau that he is not yet convinced of his starting line up but for sure he has to do without Sergiu Rogacoiv and Alexandru Gatcan who are both ruled out.
The Moldova mentor confirmed that this game against Malta will be a very though game even though they are playing on home soil. The ex-Soviet Union national team player, now at the helm of the Moldovan team, is also aware of the positive atmosphere within the Maltese clan and the fact that Fitzel's players are coming from two positive results out of their last three outings is really worrying him. Dobrovolski still thinks that Moldova will manage to avoid a last table placing in group C of this Euro 2008 qualifiers.
The game will be played in front of a full house capacity Zimbru stadium in Chisinau where a crowd of 11,500 is expected. Sources close to the Moldavian FA confirmed that this English style stadium will be definitely an asset to the home players due to the vociferous atmosphere expected.
- The MFA Technical Centre will be organising another UEFA ‘A’ Diploma Course at the Ta’ Qali Technical Centre from Saturday 14th to Sunday 22nd April 2007 (first phase), both days included. The second phase will be from Monday 14th to Sunday 20th May (both days included).
Application forms are available from the Technical Centre, Ta’ Qali, during office hours.
These forms are to be duly filled and accompanied by a recent passport-size photo, a photocopy of the UEFA ‘B’ Diploma Certificate and a football and coaching career CV.
A signed certificate by an official of the current employing club or nursery and a medical certificate are also required.
Applications will be accepted on a first come first served basis and when the maximum number is received no more applications will be accepted.
Closing date for applications will be on Monday 9th April 2007.
Thu 22
- Gozo - First Division Nadur Y. vs Qala SJ 0-0
- Gozo - Second Division SK Victoria W. vs Zebbug R. 3-1
- The Malta Under-21 side will be facing Moldova in a friendly match at the Sheriff Complex in Tiraspol on Friday evening. This game is part of the team's preparation ahead of the UEFA Under-21 Championship 2007/09 qualifiers which get underway in June.
Malta was drawn in a group with Wales, Romania, France and Bosnia-Herzegovina in the Under-21 Championship.
After being eliminated from the previous Under-21 Championship campaign following two 1-2 defeats to Georgia, the Under-21 side played four matches losing the four of them.
Malta suffered three narrow 1-2 defeats to Tunisia at Ta' Qali in May, Switzerland U-19 in September at Ta' Qali and 1-2 to Tunisia in Tunis. Last month, the Under-21 side succumbed to a heavy 0-4 defeat to Finland.
Miller will be fielding these eleven players: Miguel Montfort (Valletta), Edmond Agius (Hibs), Steven Bezzina (Valletta), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Andrei Agius (Martina Franca), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), Tyrone Farrugia (Msida), Matthew Bartolo (Hibs), Dyson Falzon (Valletta), Paul Fenech (Msida), Ian Zammit (Valletta).
Also at his disposal are Michael Falzon (Hamrun), Ryan Camilleri (Pietà), Justin Grioli (Valletta), Julian Vella (Hibs), Edward Herrera (Pietà), Stephen Meilak (Hamrun) and Andrew Scerri (Marsa).
- After leaving Malta on Thursday morning, the Malta national team held its first training session in Chisinau in the afternoon.
It rained constantly throughout the session which was held under the guidance on national coach Dusan Fitzel.
Goalkeeper Justin Haber who was included in the squad although he was still sick on Wednesday has now recovered fully and is therefore expected to start. Gilbert Agius and Kevin Sammut, who were both nursing slight injuries trained regularly.
Another training session will be held at the Zimbru Stadium on Saturday at 19:00 local time, 18:00 CET.
The Maltese contingent is attracting the interest of the media in Moldova with two television stations watching the arrival of the Maltese national team. MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud and national coach Dusan Fitzel were also interviewed.
The team is accompanied by a number of Maltese supporters who travelled with the squad on the charter flight to Chisinau.
Melita Cable will be broadcast live on Melita Sports on Saturday at 18:00. A preview will start at 17:45.
This is the first time ever Melita Cable will broadcast a live Malta away game, thus confirming its commitment and support to Maltese football. Those interested in watching the game on Melita Sports can subscribe by calling 27 270 270 or by applying on line on www.melitasports.com
Wed 21
- Malta national coach Dusan Fitzel and Under-21 coach Mark Miller named the final squads which will be leaving Malta on Thursday morning, destination Moldova.
The senior sides face each other in a EURO 2008 qualifier while the Under-21 sides play a friendly match.
Fitzel dropped Peter Pullicino and Andrew Cohen from the senior squad as both players failed to recover from injuries they had sustained.
Kevin Sammut and Gilbert Agius were also nursing slight injuries while Justin Haber was sick but the three of them should be available for selection for Saturday's game.
The 20-man squad therefore includes three goalkeepers and no less than seven Marsaxlokk players.
Msida defender Josef Mifsud is the only uncapped player in the squad while Daniel Bogdanovic is making his return to the national team after over three years.
The squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Justin Haber (Marsaxlokk), Andrew Hogg (Pietà), Mario Muscat (Hibernians);
defenders Ian Azzopardi (Floriana), Roderick Briffa (Birkirkara), Luke Dimech (Marsaxlokk), Josef Mifsud (Msida), Brian Said (Sliema), Kenneth Scicluna (Birkirkara);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Roderick Bajada (Sliema), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Jamie Pace (Marsaxlokk), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk), Gareth Sciberras (Marsaxlokk);
forwards Etienne Barbara (Birkirkara), Daniel Bogdanovic (Marsaxlokk), Michael Mifsud (Coventry), Andre Schembri (Marsaxlokk), Ivan Woods (Sliema).
Malta vs Moldova is valid from Group C of the EURO 2008 qualifying round. The game will be played at the Zimbru Stadium in Chisinau, kick-off at 18:00.
The game will be broadcast live on Melita Sports.
Meanwhile Malta Under-21 coach Mark Miller trimmed his squad to eighteen players leaving out Sliema Wanderers goalkeeper Henry Bonello, defenders Steve Borg of Mosta, Roderick Fenech of Hamrun and Jonathan Pearson of Hibernians and Floriana striker Angus Buhagiar.
The Under-21 squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Michael Falzon (Hamrun), Miguel Montfort (Valletta);
defenders Andrei Agius (Martina Franca), Steven Bezzina (Valletta), Ryan Camilleri (Pietà), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Tyrone Farrugia (Msida), Justin Grioli (Valletta);
midfielders Edmond Agius (Hibs), Matthew Bartolo (Hibs), Dyson Falzon (Valletta), Paul Fenech (Msida), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), Julian Vella (Hibs);
forwards Edward Herrera (Pietà), Stephen Meilak (Hamrun), Andrew Scerri (Marsa), Ian Zammit (Valletta).
The Under-21 game is a friendly match which serves the two teams as part of the preparation for the coming UEFA Under-21 Championship campaign which kicks-off in June.
The two squads leave Malta on Thursday morning at 07:00 on a charter flight direct to Chisinau. They return home on Sunday.
- Six Premier League players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner after last weekend's matches.
The worst hit were Hibernians who had three players suspended. Edmond Agius, Andre Rocha Da Silva and Ndubisi Chukunyere are therefore ruled out of the game against Birkirkara on Saturday 31. Birkirkara's George Mallia was also banned for one match.
Paul Fenech of Msida and Valletta captain Gilbert Agius were also suspended for one match and are ruled out of the game Valletta vs Msida on Saturday 31.
Mark Saliba (Attard), Wayne Mallia (Gharghur) and Alan Deidun (Kirkop) were suspended for one match in Division 3.
Carl Calvagna and Geoffrey Spiteri (Birkirkara), Mead Mifsud (Hamrun), Isaac Angelo Schiavone (Marsaxlokk), Jonathan Bugeja (Qormi), Josef Vassallo and Owen Camenzuli (Siggiewi) were handed a one-match ban in the Youth League.
- After a two year break, the Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge is making a comeback, thanks to Emirates renewed sponsorship, Arsenal Malta Supporters Club (AMSC) and the English Premier Football Club, Arsenal FC.
Following Emirates' sponsorship of Arsenal FC, the Arsenal Malta Supporters Club are organising the 4th edition of the Emirates Airline Young Footballers Challenge for talented young footballers.
Youth Nursery Football Clubs in Malta and Gozo are invited to register two of their top young soccer players, boys and girls, born in 1994 and born in 1995, (Under 11 and Under 12) for the fourth edition of the Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge.
The Challenge will take place at the Centenary Stadium at Ta' Qali on Saturday, 26th May 2007. The competition is designed to enhance individual technique of Maltese young footballers.
During the event's briefing held specifically for the Youth Nurseries at the AMSC premises in Santa Venera, the Club's Chairman, Richard Felice Pace, announced that Arsenal FC have already committed their support towards this challenge.
The Premier Club will be sending two senior official youth coaches to Malta to oversee the event and assist the adjudicating panel, which will be made up of three established Maltese coaches. The visiting coaches will be the key speakers during an evening forum to be held for all football coaches of Youth Nursery clubs.
The two coaches - Paul Shipwright who is a Community Coach and Martin Davis who is a Sports Development Officer, will be able to visit from two to four nurseries during the first day of their visit on May 24th. The following day, the seminar will be held at the Corinthia San Gorg.
Mr Felice Pace said that the Arsenal Supporters Club believes that this event provides an opportunity for young aspiring footballers to test their soccer skills individually rather than as a team.
He said: "The Challenge is designed to develop individual talent of the young 11 and 12 year olds registered with Nursery Clubs in Malta and Gozo. Each child competes among the best players of same age group from every participating Youth Nursery. We augur that as many Nursery Clubs as possible will take up this challenge and participate. The two Nursery clubs representing the two overall winners will each receive handsome prize money."
In 2004, the Dubai-based international airline, signed the biggest sponsorship deal worth £100 million in football history with Arsenal FC. The agreement also included Emirates' naming rights to Arsenal's new £357 million, the Emirates Stadium, for the following 15 years.
Malta is continuing to build on the success of the previous three editions of the Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge. The concept of this challenge was developed in Malta by Emirates Airline.
Emirates' Manager for Malta and Cyprus, Paul Fleri Soler, said: "Emirates has always believed in this initiative for young aspiring footballers in Malta and Gozo. Following Emirates' sponsorship with Arsenal FC, we immediately started talks with Arsenal supporters club in Malta to continue building on their successors. Past winners of the Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge have eventually gained further opportunities in their training. We hope that many children will participate in the Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge 2007 and that we will see some stars of the future develop their skills in the exhilarating sport."
AMSC Event Co-ordinator, Peter Paul Gauci, gave details of the competition. He said that this year the Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge is open for young female and male footballers who will compete in the same competition.
Each nursery is invited to select two top players: one born in 1994 and another player born in 1995 (as from 1 January to 31 December of each mentioned year). Those Nursery Clubs that train young female footballers may also submit the name of best girl for the each group apart from submitting the names of the two boys. This means that the Club with female players may submit the names of 2 girls and 2 boys for the competition.
On the 26th May 2007, all chosen participants will be tested on their individual skills in dribbling, juggling and shooting, according to the Set Minimum Standards of the Nursery Clubs.
"The Challenge will close with the presentation of Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge 2007 Shield, presented to the coach of the overall winning Nursery Club. Two young footballer winners (1994 & 1995) will each receive a Trophy and a prize of Lm100 worth of Arsenal branded goods."
In addition, each winning Nursery Club will this year receive Lm150 worth of goods. The Arsenal visiting coaches will present a certificate to all participants," continued Mr Gauci.
Nominations from nursery clubs will be accepted on the respective application form. These forms together with the Rules & Regulations will be mailed to each Youth Nursery in Malta and Gozo. The closing date of entries is Friday, 14th April 2007.
In conjunction with the fourth edition of Emirates Airline Young Footballer Challenge, AMSC is holding a separate competition for children whose parents are members of the club. AMSC members are now able to register their children aged 9 to 15 years for the membership competition. The winner of the Membership Competition will receive a Trophy and Arsenal FC branded gift.
ASCM was founded in Malta in 1980 and in 2005 the club celebrated its 25th anniversary. The Maltese club is considered as the leading Arsenal supporters club for other Arsenal supporters clubs in the world. It is one of the oldest supporters clubs and the only one that owns its own premises. The Chairman, Mr Richard Felice Pace, is one of the founding members. ASCM currently has around 400 members. Its website is www.arsenalmalta.com
Interested supporters in Malta are invited to join the Club and may contact the club on tel: 2147 0145 or write to AMSC, 14 Misrah il-Kebbies, Sta. Venera HMR 11.
- Since its inception in 2005 Premier School of Football's main mission has been that of offering youngsters the possibility to learn and to improve the technical abilities required for the game of football in a professional manner. Special and individual attention is given to all students for the enhancement of their self-belief and character building.
In order to strengthen the professional services it provides, Premier School of Football has now introduced the Football Association's training programme known as the Soccer Star Challenge - a football coaching, learning and assessment program for boys and girls aged 6-16 years. This program consists of practices and games to enable children to learn essential soccer techniques, together with simple reliable tests.
The challenge focuses on six essential football techniques namely; running with the ball, turning with the ball, speed, dribbling, heading and shooting. A learning program of practices and games is provided for each technique, while the tests will reflect the technical ability of the players in these techniques.
The Soccer Star tests have been validated by Professor Tim Holt of Southampton University, England following extensive research with over 10,000 children. They have been proven to display over 90% reliability and over 90% validity in distinguishing between different categories of players.
The Soccer Star Challenge, therefore represents the largest worldwide objective assessment of young players' technical ability.
Qualified coaches of the Premier School of Football will be conducting preparatory classes for the F. A. Soccer Star Challenge at their complex in Mosta. Parents interested in acquiring more details on this Scheme should contact Mr. Alex Delia on 99470423 or Mr Carl Attard on 99459607.
Tue 20
- Addressing a press conference ahead of a double fixture for the national team against Moldova and Greece in the EURO 2008 qualifiers, MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud said Malta is aiming for a good performance and at least one positive result.
Malta faces Moldova in Chisinau on Saturday 24 and then hosts European champions Greece on Wednesday 28 at Ta' Qali.
Making his return to the national squad is Marsaxlokk striker Daniel Bogdanovic who is currently leading the scorers' list in the BOV Premier League with 25 goals. Bogdanovic made his last appearance for the national team in December 2003 in a friendly match against Poland.
Another new face in the squad is Msida St. Joseph defender Josef Mifsud. Mifsud was asked to start training with the national team last month after establishing himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League.
National coach Dusan Fitzel is worried about the condition of some of the players. Steve Wellman and Terence Scerri are ruled out of this game while Justin Haber, Andrew Cohen, Kevin Sammut, Gilbert Agius and Peter Pullicino are not fully fit. However the Czech coach is hoping some of these players will be fully fit.
"Five months after the win over Hungary, for a coach it is much more difficult to prepare for the next games as foreign coaches will tackle the game against Malta differently," said Fitzel.
The first game for Malta will be against Moldova on Saturday.
This will be the first time Malta and Moldova will be facing each other in a competitive match as the previous five encounters were friendly matches or matches from the Malta International Tournament. Malta won one match, Moldova won three, the other match ending in a draw.
Dr Mifsud said Moldova are ranked higher than Malta and therefore start as favourites. However even Hungary and Austria were ranked better than Malta and the boys in red still managed to obtain positive results.
Fitzel, on the other hand, said he was trying to make it clear that the game against Moldova will be no easy game although they lost three matches, earning their only point in a draw with Bosnia-Herzegovina.
"Moldova have a new coach (former Russian international Igor Dobrovolski) and a number of new players. They played just one friendly match, using two different systems 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 and therefore it's difficult to predict which system will be adopted."
"They are a strong team with thirteen players playing abroad. Therefore it's of utmost importance that we keep our feet on the ground," said Fitzel.
As regards the game against Greece, this will be the seventh clash between the two countries with Malta winning one, Greece three and the other two ending in draws. All these games were part of the European Championship qualifiers.
The Malta national coach said Greece were probably the strongest side in the group. "They are the European Champions, they have a most experienced coach and no less than eleven players play in one of the top leagues in Europe."
Around 500 supporters will be travelling to Malta for this game.
Malta vs Greece will be played at the National Stadium on Wednesday 28, kick-off at 19:30. The match will be controlled by referee Pedro Oliveira Alves Garcia, assisted by Paulo Januario Leite Ribeiro and Jose Garcias Bolinhas Trigo and fourth official Manuel Neves Mreira De Sousa.
Match ticket prices are as follows: West Sides A & C - Upper - Lm 10;
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 23rd 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 National Stadium - Ta'Qali.
Tickets will also be available at the gates just before the match. The gates at the National Stadium will open at 18:15.
Public transport from City Gate to the National Stadium starts at 18:00. Public transport will also be available from the National Stadium back to City Gate at the end of the match.
At around 18:30, entertainment will be provided by a number of singers, namely Klinsman Coleiro and his band and Olivia Lewis. The entertainment is being provided by Events Services. Peter Busuttil will be Master of Ceremonies.
Bank of Valletta will once again distribute plastic sticks to supporters in order to help create an atmosphere prior to and during the match.
On the other hand, Powerade are pleading their support for the national team by taking the initiative of paying the transport of children from all nurseries registered with the Youth FA from each nursery's locality to Ta' Qali and back. Moreover Powerade will also donate a small gift to each child that will be present to the game and which has participated in this campaign.
On behalf of Powerade Malta and General Soft Drinks, Mr Martin Agius said the company's target was to recruit kids to support the national team and encourage them as much as possible to follow the team.
Meanwhile as regards the game against Moldova, Dr Joe Mifsud announced that Melita Cable is close to securing the rights for the game and would therefore broadcast the game live. The game will then be shown on a free-to-air station on Sunday.
The 22-man squad for the games against Moldova and Greece is made up of:
goalkeepers Justin Haber (Marsaxlokk), Andrew Hogg (Pietà), Mario Muscat (Hibernians);
defenders Ian Azzopardi (Floriana), Roderick Briffa (Birkirkara), Luke Dimech (Marsaxlokk), Josef Mifsud (Msida), Brian Said (Sliema), Kenneth Scicluna (Birkirkara);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Roderick Bajada (Sliema), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Jamie Pace (Marsaxlokk), Peter Pullicino (Marsaxlokk), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk), Gareth Sciberras (Marsaxlokk);
forwards Etienne Barbara (Birkirkara), Daniel Bogdanovic (Marsaxlokk), Andrew Cohen (Hibernians), Michael Mifsud (Coventry), Andre Schembri (Marsaxlokk), Ivan Woods (Sliema).
- In the coming days, the Malta Under-21 side will be busy playing two friendly matches against Moldova and Sweden.
The first game will be played away from home on Friday 23 and then Malta hosts Sweden at the Hibs Ground on Tuesday 27.
Dr Joe Mifsud said this was an important double-fixture for the Under-21 side as these games will give the team the opportunity to prepare for the coming UEFA Under-21 Championship 2007/09 qualifiers which get underway in June.
Malta was drawn in a group with Wales, Romania, France and Bosnia-Herzegovina. The eight qualifying matches will be played in the following order: 2/3 June vs Wales (away); 5/6 June vs Romania (home); 8/9 September vs Bosnia-Herzegovina (away); 11/12 September vs France (home); 16/17 October vs Wales (home); 17/18 November vs Romania (away); 20/21 November vs Bosnia-Herzegovina (home) and 6/7 September 2008 vs France (away).
Under-21 coach Mark Miller said he is glad to have his side playing these two matches as this gives him the chance to bring the players together and prepare for the Under-21 Championship qualifiers.
Miller said the draw put Malta in a group with four strong teams which all play different styles of football. Therefore playing against Moldova and Sweden, who also play two completely different styles of football will be definitely a good test for the team.
After a disappointing performance by the team in a 0-4 defeat to Finland last month, Miller said he took as much positive as possible from the performance of the team, saying that it was of utmost importance to suffer goals as the team did in that game.
Malta vs Sweden will be played at the Hibs Ground on Tuesday 27, kick-off at 16:45. The game will be controlled by referee Anton Zammit, assisted by assistant referees Konrad Borg and Joe Camilleri and fourth official Paul Caruana.
Entrance is free.
Public transport from City Gate to the Hibs Ground starts at 15:45. Public transport will also be available from the Hibs Ground back to City Gate at the end of the match.
The Under-21 squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Henry Bonello (Sliema), Michael Falzon (Hamrun), Miguel Montfort (Valletta);
defenders Andrei Agius (Martina Franca), Steven Bezzina (Valletta), Steve Borg (Mosta), Ryan Camilleri (Pietà), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Tyrone Farrugia (Msida), Roderick Fenech (Hamrun), Justin Grioli (Valletta), Jonathan Pearson (Hibs);
midfielders Edmond Agius (Hibs), Matthew Bartolo (Hibs), Dyson Falzon (Valletta), Paul Fenech (Msida), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), Julian Vella (Hibs);
forwards Angus Buhagiar (Floriana), Edward Herrera (Pietà), Stephen Meilak (Hamrun), Andrew Scerri (Marsa), Ian Zammit (Valletta).
Meanwhile during the same press conference, MFA President Dr Joe Mifsud announced that as part of the Malta Under-17 side's preparation for the UEFA Mini-Tournament which will be held in October, Malta will be hosting a mini-tournament in Easter, hosting San Marino and Cyprus.
- The draw of the U*BET FA Trophy quarter-finals provided two interesting clashes as Sliema Wanderers were drawn with rivals Birkirkara and Valletta were paired with leaders Marsaxlokk.
The other two quarter-finals are Hibernians vs Marsa and Msida St. Joseph vs Pietà Hotspurs.
Sliema face Birkirkara. Both entered this stage after receiving a bye. The two teams met three times in Premier League matches this season. Following a 3-3 draw in the first round, Sliema won 1-0 in the second round with Birkirkara winning 2-1 in the third round.
Holders Hibernians were drawn with Marsa. The Paolites were another team to be awarded a bye. On the other hand, Marsa reached the quarter-finals after beating Tarxien 4-2 on penalties following a 3-3 draw and a 9-8 win over Qormi on penalties following another 3-3 draw. The two teams met twice with Hibs winning 3-1 and 4-0.
Msida St. Joseph take on Pietà Hotspurs. Msida defeated Naxxar 2-0 and Mosta 5-1 in the previous rounds. On the other hand, Pietà struggled to reach this stage after beating Vittoriosa 1-0 and St. Patrick 3-2. Msida and Pietà met twice with the Saints winning 3-0 and 3-1.
The other quarter-final is Valletta vs Marsaxlokk. Valletta beat San Gwann 1-0 in the first round and Mqabba 3-2 in the second round to reach the quarter-finals. On the other hand, Marsaxlokk were awarded a bye. Marsaxlokk have already defeated Valletta three times this season - 2-1, 1-0 and 3-1.
The quarter-finals of the U*BET FA Trophy will be played on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 April at the National Stadium.
The semi-finals will be played on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 May while the final will be played on May 25.
- The draw for the quick-Keno Second & Third Division Knock-Out semi-finals was held on Tuesday during the programme MFA Magazine.
Balzan Youths were drawn with Dingli Swallows while Rabat Ajax take on Birzebbuga St. Peter's.
Balzan reached this stage after winning Group 1 which included Luqa, St. Andrews and Ta' Xbiex and beating Mellieha 2-1 in the quarter-finals. On the other hand, Dingli won Group 6 which included Fgura, Mgarr and Xghajra. In the quarter-finals, Dingli beat Gudja United 1-0.
Dingli have already defeated Balzan twice this season - 4-1 and 3-0.
Rabat Ajax reached this stage after winning Group 7 which included Kalkara and Qrendi. In the quarter-finals, they beat Melita 3-1. On the other hand, Birzebbuga St. Peter's won Group 2 which included Mdina, Siggiewi and Zebbug. In the quarter-finals, they defeated Lija Athletic 1-0.
Birzebbuga defeated Rabat 2-1 in the first round while the second round clash ended in a 2-2 draw.
The semi-finals of the quick-KENO Second & Third Division Knock-Out Competition will be played on Saturday 7 at the Centenary Stadium. The final will be played on May 25th at the National Stadium.
- Former Floriana and Malta international player Pullu Demanuele passed away at the age of 77.
'Il-Koku' started his career with Floriana Ajax. With the Greens, he won all major honours including seven championships, eight FA Trophies, six Cassar Cups and two Scicluna Cups. He was the top scorer in the First Division in season 1950/51 and 1957/58.
Demanuele also played for the national team and was one of the players who played for the national team in the first ever international match on February 24th, 1957 against Austria.
The funeral will be held on Wednesday at St. Publius Church, Floriana at 10:30.
Mon 19
- First Division Tarxien R. vs Qormi 0-0, St. Patrick vs Hamrun S. 0-2
- Second Division Mellieha vs Melita 3-2, Dingli S. vs Gudja U. 5-0
- Third Division Ghaxaq vs Luqa SA 1-3, Siggiewi vs Santa Lucia 2-1
Sun 18
- Premier League Msida SJ vs Birkirkara 1-3, Valletta vs Marsaxlokk 1-3
- First Division Naxxar L. vs Mosta 0-3, San Gwann vs Senglea A. 0-2
- Second Division Zebbug R. vs Sta. Venera L. 0-3, St. Andrews vs Gozo 1-1
- Third Division Attard vs Kirkop U. 2-0, Gharghur vs Fgura U. 1-0
- Gozo - First Division Xaghra U. vs Xewkija T. 4-1
- Gozo - Second Division Victoria H. vs Gharb R. 5-0
Sat 17
- Premier League Pietà H. vs Floriana 3-1, Sliema W. vs Hibernians 2-1
- Third Division Sirens vs Mgarr U. 0-0, Zurrieq vs Xghajra T. 3-0
- Two Premier League players were suspended for one match by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner following the mid-week matches from the BOV Premier League.
Stacey Vella (Msida) and Lee Grima (St. George's) received their fourth yellow card and were suspended for one game. Vella is ruled out of this weekend's game against Birkirkara while Grima will be missing the game against Pietà Hotspurs on April 15.
Birzebbuga St. Peter's duo Patrick Muscat and John Paul Barbara were both banned for one match in the BOV Second Division while Valletta's Lee Cumbo was suspended for one game in the Youth League.
- Serghei Covalciuc and Serghei Lascencov were left out of the 22-man squad named by Moldova coach Igor Dobrovolski ahead of the two EURO 2008 qualifiers against Malta and Hungary.
Moldova, who take on Malta on 24 March in Chisinau and Hungary in Budapest four days later, are without Covalciuc due to the midfielder's recovery from knee surgery. Defender Lascencov, meanwhile, failed to impress in a 2-0 friendly defeat by Romania last month, although Dobrovolski hands Victor Golovatenco another chance after impressing in Bucharest.
Moldova are yet to claim their first win in Group C, earning their only point in a 2-2 draw with Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The Moldova squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Serghei Pascenco (FC Sheriff), Alexandru Melenciuc (FC Sheriff), Nicolai Calancea (CSF Zimbru Chisinau);
defenders Semion Bulgaru (unattached), Valeriu Catinsus (FC Tom Tomsk), Alexandru Epureanu (FC Sheriff), Vitalie Bordian (FC Metalist Kharkiv), Ghenadie Olexic (FC Amkar Perm), Victor Golovatenco (FC Tiraspol);
midfielders Radu Rebeja (FC Moscow), Stanislav Ivanov (FC Spartak Moscow), Igor Tsigirlas (FC Metalurh Zaporizhya), Andrei Corneencov (FC Sheriff), Alexandru Gatcan (FC Rubin Kazan), Victor Comlenoc (FC Obolon), Victor Berco (FC Alma-Ata), Serghei Namasco (FC Sheriff) and
forwards Serghei Rogaciov (FK Aktobe), Viorel Frunza (CFR Ecomax Cluj-Napoca), Serghei Alecseev (FC Sheriff), Igor Bugaiov (FC Chornomorets Odesa), Serghei Dadu (FC Midtjylland).
- Greece will be able to pick from a list of seven strikers for their Euro 2008 Group C qualifiers against Turkey next week and Malta on March 28 as they seek to make it five wins out of five matches.
Coach Otto Rehhagel has brought into the squad, announced on Friday, Panathinaikos pair Dimitris Papadopoulos and Dimitris Salpingidis who have scored 23 times in the league this season, dropping fellow Panathinaikos striker Vassilis Mantzios.
Defenders Traianos Dellas and Michalis Kapsis also return to the squad, offering stability and experience in the back which will be much needed in the match against joint group leaders Turkey on March 24. Both teams have yet to concede a goal in the competition.
Champions Greece, having won their first three matches, are looking to beat Turkey and open a three-point gap on their arch rivals and third-place Norway before travelling to Malta.
The squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Antonis Nikopolidis (Olympiakos Piraeus), Kostas Halkias (Aris Salonika);
defenders Yannis Goumas (Panathinaikos), Loukas Vyntra (Panathinaikos), Giorgos Anatolakis (Olympiakos), Vassilis Torosidis (Olympiakos), Sotiris Kyrgiakos (Eintracht Frankfurt), Takis Fyssas (Hearts), Yourkas Seitaridis (Atletico Madrid), Traianos Dellas (AEK Athens), Michalis Kapsis (APOEL);
midfielders Stelios Giannakopoulos (Bolton Wanderers), Giorgos Karagounis (Benfica), Kostas Katsouranis (Benfica), Alexandros Tziolis (Panathinaikos), Angelos Basinas (Mallorca) and
strikers Yannis Amanatidis (Eintracht Frankfurt), Nikos Liberopoulos (AEK Athens), Angelos Haristeas (Feyernoord), Fanis Gekas (VFL Bochum), Dimitris Papadopoulos (Panathinaikos), Dimitris Salpingidis (Panathinaikos), Giorgos Samaras (Manchester City).
Fri 16
- The last Instructional Meeting of the 2006-2007 season organized by the MFA Technical Centre on Monday 12th March had ‘Sports Psychology’ as its main theme, a different topic from the ones normally covered.
The Meeting, held at the Centenary Hall and addressed towards coaches with a CCC and a YDD Licence, attracted a handsome number of about 100 participants who were given a thorough insight of sports psychology in general by Dr Adele Muscat.
The lecturer’s highly-instructional exposition of the subject proved to be very useful for all those present. The participants were finally given a test paper to answer.
Powerade, sponsors of the Instructional Meeting, provided the prizes for those who obtained top marks in the test.
The event was given coverage in the Association’s TV Programme ‘MFA Magazine’ which was aired on Smash TV the following day.
Thu 15
- Gozo - First Division Kercem A. vs Qala SJ 2-1
- Gozo - Second Division SK Victoria W. vs Oratory Y. 5-2
- It was almost inevitable that the BOV Player of the Month for February would go to the Valletta and Malta player Gilbert Agius, a name well-steeped in the annals of the City and of our National teams.
Although in the veteran stage, the Valletta forward is still displaying qualities of youthful exuberance coupled with exquisite touches of experience when netting excellent goals and laying inviting balls for his colleagues to score.
His gem against Austria when he hit on the full volley to score Malta’s goal and his remarkable brace against Birkirkara four days later capped a great month for this evergreen player.
Gilbert Agius has definitely propelled his team’s collective qualities to very satisfactory levels this season.
Richard Dimech, Manager of Bank of Valletta's Republic Street Branch presented the trophy to the winning player and said "We are proud to present this month's award to a player who has been dedicated to his team over the years. Valletta FC have been producing strong performances this year, with Agius following Monesterolo's winning of the award for the month of August 2006".
Moviment Missjunarju Gesu Fil-Proxxmu was the charitable organization chosen by the player to benefit from the donation associated with this award.
Wed 14
- Premier League St. George's vs Marsa 1-1, Marsaxlokk vs Msida SJ 2-0
- Gozo - First Division Nadur Y. vs Ghajnsielem 3-3
- Gozo - Second Division Gharb R. vs St. Lawrence S. 2-3
- Hibernians defender Adrian Pulis was suspended for one match after being sent off in last Saturday's BOV Premier League match against Valletta. He is therefore ruled out of the next game against Sliema on Saturday.
In Division 2, Beppe Pace (Balzan), Chris Grech and Geoffrey Farrugia (Gudja), William Borg (Mellieha) and Josef Tonna (Rabat) were suspended for one game.
Clint Mallia and Gordon Mizzi (Gzira) and Nicholas Gatt (Kalkara) were suspended for one match while John Mascena (Siggiewi) was suspended for two matches.
Duncan Pisani (Floriana), Nigel Cortis (Rabat), Edward Bugeja (Siggiewi) and Michael Debono (St. Andrews) were handed a one-match ban in the Youth League while Birkirkara masseur Antoine Abela was suspended for two matches.
- Despite not playing any matches over the past month, Malta climbed three places in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking as published on Wednesday. Malta is now 111th.
Malta plays two EURO 2008 qualifiers against Moldova on March 24 away from home and against Greece at Ta' Qali on March 28.
Among the other European countries, Malta is 44th. Just ahead of Malta are Georgia (85th, up 1), Iceland (86, up 9), Albania (88, down 1), Moldova (94, down 11), Latvia (98, down 2) and Estonia (106). Behind Malta are Armenia (119), Azerbaijan (123, up 7), Kazakhstan (143, up 2), Liechtenstein (162, down 2), Andorra (163, down 2), Luxembourg (178, up 3), Faroe Islands (182, up 1) and San Marino (196).
- The eight-month ban on Hibernians and Malta international striker Terence Scerri was reduced to just five matches following an appeal by Hibernians.
In mid-February, Scerri was suspended for eight months after being sent off in the BOV Premier League match against St. George's on February 10.
Scerri had pushed referee Joe Attard after being sent off and attempted to enter the field of play once again a few minutes later as St. George's were awarded a penalty. He was suspended until October 13, 2007.
After appealing against the decision on the basis of a technicality, the first decision was declared null but it was decided that the case had to be treated by a different Disciplinary Commissioner. The case was heard on Thursday and the Disciplinary Commissioner suspended the player for eight months, until October 31, 2007.
However Hibs appealed once again against the decision and the Appeals' Board and the ban was reduced to five matches.
Scerri will be back for the Paolites in the quarter-finals of the U*BET FA Trophy as he would have served the ban by the game against Valletta on March 31. His first league game will be against Marsaxlokk on April 14.
Mon 12
- Third Division Mdina K. vs Gzira U. 3-1, Ta' Xbiex vs Qrendi 1-11
- The Malta Football Association announced new dates for matches from the BOV Premier League and the BOV First Division.
The two BOV Premier League matches which were due to be played on Sunday 11, St. George’s vs Marsa and Marsaxlokk vs Msida St. Joseph will now be played on Wednesday March 14th at the National Stadium at 18:00 and 20:00 respectively.
On the other hand, the BOV Premier League matches Msida St. Joseph vs Birkirkara and Valletta vs Marsaxlokk will now be played on Sunday March 18th at the National Stadium at 14:00 and 16:00 respectively and not on Friday 16th as originally scheduled.
The BOV First Division League matches Tarxien Rainbows vs Qormi and St. Patrick vs Hamrun Spartans which were due to be played on Sunday will now be played on Monday March 19th at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, kick-off at 13:30 and 15:30 respectively.
- Mdina Knights FC, will hold a one day 5-a-side football tournament bearing the name of
Unights Cup, on March 19th 2007 (Public Holiday) at the Hibs (Paola) Synthetic Pitches.
Affiliation fee is Lm25.
Winners will be allotted Lm100 cash prize and medals, whereas runners-up will redeem back
their affiliation fee and win a medal each. All football enthusiasts willing to join in this football extravaganza are requested to call on 79705377/ 79093368 or log on to the News section of the Mdina Knights FC portal - www.mdinaknightsfc.com – for further details and to download the application form.
Mdina Knights FC, would also like to thank the Malta University Sports Club (MUSC) for their
continuous support.
Sun 11
- Premier League St. George's vs Marsa, Marsaxlokk vs Msida SJ postponed
- First Division Tarxien R. vs Qormi and St. Patrick vs Hamrun S. postponed
- Second Division Lija A. vs Birzebbuga SP 0-0, Gudja U. vs Balzan Y. 2-3, Gozo vs Zebbug R. postponed
- Third Division Santa Lucia vs Pembroke A. 1-2, Zejtun C. vs Kalkara 3-1
- Gozo - First Division Nadur Y. vs Ghajnsielem postponed
- The two BOV Premier League matches in programme at the Hibernians Ground and the BOV First Division matches in programme at the Victor Tedesco Stadium have been called off due to water-logged pitches.
At the Hibs Ground, St. George's were due to face Marsa in a match from the Relegation Pool and Marsaxlokk had to meet Msida St. Joseph in a game from the Championship Pool.
The two First Division matches Tarxien Rainbows vs Qormi and St. Patrick vs Hamrun Spartans were also postponed.
The BOV Second Division League match in programme at the Gozo Stadium between Gozo FC and Zebbug Rangers has also been postponed.
- The Pietà Hotspurs Football Youth Nursery organised a one-day festival for the age-group categories Under-6 and Under-8.
The Pietà Hotspurs, Paola Hibs, Valletta, Hamrun Spartans, San Gwann and Pembroke Athleta youth nurseries took part in the football festival.
Hamrun Spartans emerged as winners in the Under-6 category ahead of Pietà. The Hotspurs placed first in the Under-8 category with Paola Hibs ending as runners-up.
The festival was organised on a league basis in order to give each team the opportunity to play against the rest of the teams and also to give all the kids the chance to play in a friendly atmosphere.
Sat 10
- Premier League Birkirkara vs Sliema W. 2-1, Hibernians vs Valletta 2-2
- Second Division Rabat A. vs Mellieha 1-1, Melita vs Dingli S. 3-2
Fri 9
- Third Division Fgura U. vs Ghaxaq postponed, Luqa SA vs Siggiewi 2-0
Thu 8
- Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs Xaghra U. 0-2
- Gozo - Second Division Victoria H. vs Zebbug R. 3-0
Wed 7
- Six Premier League players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner after all received their fourth yellow card during last weekend's matches.
The six players are Ndubisi Chukunyere (Hibs), Jamie Pace (Marsaxlokk), Ibrahim Babatunde (Msida), Sharlon Pace (Sliema), Adrian Mifsud (Floriana) and Edoardo Do Nascimento (St. George's).
Chukunyere is ruled out of the game against Valletta on Sunday while Sharlon Pace will be unavailable for Sliema in the game against Birkirkara. Babatunde and Jamie Pace will be missing the clash between Marsaxlokk and Msida on Sunday.
Adrian Mifsud is ruled out of the game against Pietà Hotspurs while Bizu is out for St. George's in the game against Marsa on Sunday.
In Division 1, Ismael Zammit (Naxxar) was suspended for three matches while Jeffrey Zammit (Dingli) was suspended for one match in Division 2.
Gzira United were the worst hit in Division 3 with Justin Mercieca suspended for two matches, Keith Bonello and coach Ian Buhagiar both suspended for one match. Qrendi's Michael Camilleri was suspended for two matches while Gilbert Camilleri (Mdina) and Kevin Pace (Ta' Xbiex) were banned for one match.
Thomas Cauchi (Melita), Jonathan Muscat (Mosta), Christopher Vella (Qormi) and Brian Casingena (Sirens) were suspended for one match in the Youth League.
- Following the issue of Broadcasting Authority regulations which state that away matches should be broadcast free-to-air, local fans will probably be unable to watch the EURO 2008 qualifier between Moldova and Malta scheduled to be played on March 24th although Melita Cable were prepared to screen the match.
This was revealed during a press conference by Melita Cable at Portside, Sliema on Thursday.
A Government notice with regards to the Broadcasting Act (Cap. 350) and the Broadcasting Regulations which deal with the Transmission of Major Events, published in January, considers the national football team’s competitive away matches as one of the events of "major importance for the Maltese society" and therefore should be available for free.
Melita had already reached an agreement with the rights holder for the game. However Melita cannot spend money on the rights for a game which according to the Broadcasting Authority regulations, has to be screened on a free-to-air station, as the acquisition of the rights for this game involves a hefty sum.
Last year, the company had already announced that it had already secured the rights for the games against Hungary and Norway.
As from this season, Melita has been screening a selection of BOV Premier League matches and all home matches played by the national team. Melita Sales and Marketing Manager Franco Degabriele said the experiment was a positive one so far, not ruling out the possibility that such agreement could be extended. Besides Premier League matches, Melita Sports will be broadcasting live the U*BET FA Trophy semi-finals and final.
- The MFA Technical Centre will be organising another instructional meeting for holders of Foundation, YDD and CCC Licence coaches.
This meeting will be held at the MFA Technical Centre, Ta' Qali, on Monday 12th March at 17.30 hrs.
A sports psychologist will conduct this theoretical session which will be sponsored by Powerade.
All coaches are instructed to be punctual for this Instructional Meeting.
- The Malta Football Coaches Association will once again be holding an instructional meeting for its members.
This will be held next Monday the 12th March, 2007 starting at 7.30 p.m. at the St. Aloysius Sports Complex in Birkirkara.
The practical session will be made by Stephen Azzopardi and is valid for all A and B Licenced Coaches
Tue 6
- Former Malta international defender John Buttigieg is the new Birkirkara FC coach. The former Sliema, Floriana and Valletta player takes over as new coach following the resignation of Stephen Azzopardi last Friday and the departure of Jan Artz two days later.
This will be the first time that Buttigieg will be entrusted with the job of a first-team coach. His only experience in coaching club football so far was as an assistant coach to Carmel Busuttil last season with Sta. Lucia in Division 3. However after quitting as a player, he has been coaching at the Buzu School of Football.
As a player, Buttigieg started his career in the early eighties. He moved to England in 1988 where he joined Brentford. He spent three years with Brentford, including a short spell on loan with Swindon Town.
He returned to Malta in 1991, joining Floriana. After eight years with the Greens, he moved to rivals Valletta where he played for three years before hanging his boots.
With the national team, Buttigieg played 97 matches scoring one goal.
Buttigieg will be making his debut as the new Birkirkara coach on Saturday against his first love, Sliema Wanderers.
Mon 5
- Third Division Xghajra T. vs Attard 0-3, Kirkop U. vs Gharghur 1-1
- The Birkirkara FC crisis continued on Sunday as coach Jan Artz quit the club and returned back to Holland. Therefore the Stripes are now without a coach.
Jan Artz was first contacted by Birkirkara on Monday when he was offered the job of joint-coach together with Stephen Azzopardi. The Dutchman had to deal with the motivational aspect while Azzopardi had to focus on the technical aspect.
However quite unsurprisingly Azzopardi was not ready to have someone else to share the job with and handed his resignation which was immediately accepted by the board of directors.
Artz told maltafootball.com that due to work commitments he is unable to work with a club for more than three times a week and therefore it was never his intention to assume the role of Birkirkara coach on his own.
Following Azzopardi's resignation, he was asked by Birkirkara president Victor Zammit to act as the new coach. However for the game against Marsaxlokk, Artz had no say in the selection of players.
"I was presented with the list of players by Mr Zammit. Although I had met the players for just 45 minutes and I did not even know the names of all the players, I would have preferred to make some changes from the team which lost to Valletta," said Artz.
He continued, "I wanted to include players like Mark Anthony Bonnici or Andrew Spiteri but was not allowed. Definitely I wanted to adopt a defensive approach with man-to-man marking rather than the usual 3-5-2 system, considering that we were facing the leaders. I would have preferred watching the game from the stands but was asked to sit on the bench and accepted."
The game against Marsaxlokk ended in a nightmare for the Stripes as they suffered a most humiliating 1-6 defeat.
In such a situation, he informed the club on Sunday morning that he was going to quit.
"I have full respect for Stephen Azzopardi and I'm sorry that I was possibly 'used' by the club to get rid of him. The coach is not to blame for the performance of some of the players," concluded Artz.
Meanwhile no decision has been taken yet as regards who will be guiding the team for the rest of the season starting from next Saturday's clash with Sliema Wanderers.
Sun 4
- Premier League Floriana vs St. George's 3-2, Msida SJ vs Hibernians 1-3
- First Division Mqabba vs Naxxar L. 4-2, Senglea A. vs Vittoriosa S. 0-0
- Second Division Balzan Y. vs Melita 1-2, Birzebbuga SP vs Gudja U. 2-0
- Third Division Qrendi vs Sirens 1-2, Mgarr U. vs Zurrieq 0-0
- Gozo - First Division Kercem A. vs Ghajnsielem 1-3, Xewkija T. vs Nadur Y. 0-2
- The Hamrun Local Council and the Hamrun Spartans Youth Nursery signed an agreement thanks to which Hamrun residents will be able to benefit from an initiative which should help children develop their talents.
During a press conference at the nursery's premises, Mayor Dr Luciano Busuttil said that thanks to this agreement, the Local Council is bound to promote sports among Hamrun youths by financing the registration fee which boys and girls pay to join the Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery as from next season. The Local Council will be subsidizing transport expenses for educational and cultural outings organised by the nursery. The sponsorship agreement covering the Tony Bajada Memorial which is held during the Easter Holidays will be extended.
Thanks to this agreement, the Local Council will be able to use the sports facilities at the Hamrun Spartans complex. Dr Busuttil said that this agreement was approved by all councillors unanimously. A clear sign that the local council was doing its utmost to develop the talents of the future Hamrun generation.
Nursery Chairman Mr Victor Cassar said that following several discussions between the two parties, the Local Council and the Nursery are now joining forces to work harder among Hamrun youths. He thanked the Local Council, and especially the Mayor, for their support.
Mr Ludovico Micallef, Chairman of the Amateur, Youth & Grassroots Committee, and Joe Micallef, secretary general of The Youth FA, both praised this initiative which is the first one of its kind. Mr Micallef augured more local council will take this example.
Hamrun Spartans FC president Mr Gaetano Cuschieri thanked the Local Council for this gesture and said he was glad that the decision was taken unanimously by all councillors. This means that the council appreciated the work being done by the nursery.
Sat 3
- Premier League Birkirkara vs Marsaxlokk 1-6, Sliema W. vs Valletta 2-0
- Second Division Dingli S. vs Rabat A. 1-1, Sta. Venera L. vs Lija A. 1-0
Fri 2
- Third Division Mdina K. vs Zejtun C. 2-4, Gzira U. vs Ta' Xbiex 2-3
- MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud revealed that he will be standing for re-election for the post of president of the Malta Football Association during the next Annual General Meeting which will be held in July. Dr Mifsud was speaking during a meeting of the Council which was held on Thursday.
In the context of the MFA's objectives to further the cause of the game, Dr Mifsud said that over the years the Association worked efficiently so that football in all its aspects could improve. He said that he felt that in this respect, he still had a valid contribution to give and his recent election as member of the UEFA Executive Committee has strengthened his resolve to continue with this work at the helm of the Association if the majority of the members would support him to do so. Hence his intention to accept to be nominated to stand for president of the association in the election for this post.
Dr. Mifsud said that the funds available were spent wisely and this policy should always be the guiding light of the association. Through the good work done in the last years, the MFA, besides embarking on new infrastructure projects to enhance the game will be in a position to provide more financial assistance to its members. But the MFA must seek assurances that these funds are spent diligently.
He said that promises cannot be made without the belief that they can be fulfilled.
This is his philosophy his good track record in administrative and financial matters were a guarantee for the years ahead.
Dr Mifsud stressed that what is important is that the Association will enjoy the confidence that is so necessary for the sound administration of the game in our country.
Meanwhile during the same meeting, details of works and time frames were given on the current infrastructural projects, namely the UEFA Jubilee Mini-Pitches, the new FIFA Two Star football turf at the Centenary Stadium and the transfer of MFA Headquarters to the Millennium Stand.
The credit worthiness of the MFA enabled it to obtain funds to finance these various infrastructural projects all of which were mostly financed by FIFA, UEFA and other sponsors.
More of this was in the pipeline as we need to see that all the youths played their matches on artificial turf. Hence the next new project will be the building a small stand and a new pitch at the MFA Training Grounds.
- Vittoriosa Stars and Senglea Athletic will be facing each other in the EuroSport First Division Knock-Out quarter-finals which will be held next month. The draw was carried out at the EuroSport outlet in Birkirkara on Friday.
In the other quarter-finals, St. Patrick take on Qormi, Mosta meet San Gwann and Mqabba face Tarxien Rainbows. Vittoriosa-Senglea and St. Patrick-Qormi will be played on Saturday 7th April while Mosta-San Gwann and Mqabba-Tarxien will be played on Sunday 8th.
First Division Clubs' Standing Committee president Michael Mercieca said the First Division Knock-Out was being held once again after several years. The committee had submitted the proposal to the Malta Football Association and this was accepted.
The next objective of the First Division Clubs' Standing Committee was to find a sponsor for this knock-out competition. He thanked Michele Peresso Ltd for agreeing to sponsor the competition through EuroSport.
MFA deputy general secretary Louis Micallef praised the First Division Clubs' Standing Committee for their initiative and thanked the sponsors for their support.
Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, Ms Cristina Peresso, said the company was honoured to sponsor the First Division Knock-Out and said that this agreement could just be the beginning.
Meanwhile it was revealed that following an agreement between the First Division Clubs' Standing Committee and EuroSport, the latter will be providing Adidas balls for the remaining BOV First Division League and the EuroSport First Division Knock-Out matches.
The First Division Knock-Out kicked-off earlier this season with two Preliminary Round matches. Senglea Athletic defeated Hamrun Spartans 1-0 after extra-time while Mqabba beat Naxxar Lions 3-0.
- The eight-month ban on Hibernians and Malta international striker Terence Scerri was confirmed despite an appeal by Hibernians.
In mid-February, Scerri was suspended for eight months after being sent off in the BOV Premier League match against St. George's on February 10.
Scerri had pushed referee Joe Attard after being sent off and attempted to enter the field of play once again a few minutes later as St. George's were awarded a penalty. He was suspended until October 13, 2007.
After appealing against the decision on the basis of a technicality, the decision was declared null. However it was decided that the case had to be treated by a different Disciplinary Commissioner. The case was heard on Thursday and the Disciplinary Commissioner suspended the player for eight months, until October 31, 2007.
- Stephen Azzopardi tendered his resignation from the post of Birkirkara FC coach.
According to the club's official website www.birkirkarafc.com, during a meeting between Azzopardi and the club's board of directors, the coach did not accept certain decisions which were taken by the board and tendered his resignation.
The club aimed at having Azzopardi and Artz as joint-coaches.
Stephen Azzopardi had joined Birkirkara FC in December 2001, leading them to win all major honours, namely the Premier League championship 2005/06, the FA Trophy 2002, 2003 and 2005, the Super Cup 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005, the Super 5 Competition 2002/03, 2003/04 and the Lowenbrau Cup 2003.
His place will be taken by Dutchman Jan Artz who had joined the club earlier this week.
Last season, Artz had coached Floriana FC. He joined the Greens in September and after a poor start, Floriana had a positive run in the second round and just failed to secure a place in the Championship Pool by a whisker. Eventually, they managed to avoid relegation and reached the final of the U*BET FA Trophy.
After winning the BOV Premier League title last season, Birkirkara are currently fifth, eleven points behind leaders Marsaxlokk.
- A course for trainee referees will be held between 27th March and 30th April 2007.
Applications are invited from males and females and are to be submitted to Mr Tom A. Restall, Head Refereeing Department, MFA Headquarters, 280 St Paul’s Street, Valletta or by email – tom.restall@mfa.com.mt by not later than 20th March 2007.
Details of the course will be sent to all applicants.
Thu 1
- Gozo - First Division Qala SJ vs Sannat L. 1-0
- Gozo - Second Division SK Victoria W. vs St. Lawrence S. 5-2
- The draws for the qualifying rounds in the UEFA European Under-19 and the UEFA European Under-17 Championships were held in Barcelona on Thursday.
The draw was carried out by UEFA Youth and Amateur Football Committee chairman Jim Boyce.
For the first time, the draw featured all competing nations bar the final tournament hosts, who qualify automatically for next summer's eight-team finals - previously the three countries with the highest coefficient ranking sat out the qualifying round and entered the competition in the Elite round. The change has been prompted by the confirmation of Montenegro as UEFA's 53rd member association at the 31st UEFA Congress in Dusseldorf in January.
In the UEFA European Under-19 Championship, Malta was drawn in Group 13 together with Croatia, Italy and Montenegro.
For the draw the 52 teams are ranked according to their UEFA coefficient, with those ranked 1 to 26 placed in Pot A and the remaining side, ranked 27 to 52, in Pot B. Malta was ranked 44th.
The teams in the draw were divided into 13 pools of four as they begin their bids for a place in the eight-team finals in the Czech Republic. The top two in each of the 13 sections, together with the two third-placed sides with the best record overall, qualify for the Elite round which will be held in early 2008. The winners of each of the seven four-team groups in the Elite round, together with the final hosts, will participate in the tournament in the Czech Republic in July 2008.
In the UEFA Under-17 Championship, Malta was drawn in Group 11 together with England, Portugal and Estonia.
The 52 teams in the draw were split into two pots based on their coefficient, with the associations ranked 1 to 26 in Pot A and Pot B comprising the countries ranked 27 to 52. Malta was ranked 45th.
The winners and second-placed side from each of the 13 sections, together with the two third-placed countries with the best record against the top two in their group, will qualify for the Elite round, which comprises seven groups of four and will be held next spring. The seven Elite round group winners will join hosts Turkey in the 2008 finals.
- Dutchman Jan Artz will be forming part of the technical team of Birkirkara FC and will be working hand in hand with coach Stephen Azzopardi.
Last season, Artz had coached Floriana FC. He joined the Greens in September and after a poor start, Floriana had a positive run in the second round and just failed to secure a place in the Championship Pool by a whisker. Eventually, they managed to avoid relegation and reached the final of the U*BET FA Trophy.
After winning the BOV Premier League title last season, Birkirkara are currently fifth, eleven points behind leaders Marsaxlokk.
- Msida St. Joseph president Antoine Portelli had a four-match ban reduced to two matches after appealing against the decision.
Portelli was suspended after the game between Msida and Sliema Wanderers on February 11.
He will be able to return on the bench as from next weekend since he has already served a two-match ban.