October 2008

Fri 31

• Third Division Section A Fgura U. vs Gharghur 1-0
• Third Division Section B Pembroke A. vs Kirkop U. 1-1
• Former Inter, Roma and Italian national team striker Marco Delvecchio is expected to join champions Valletta next year after agreeing terms with Valletta.
  Delvecchio arrived in Malta for discussions with Valletta FC, meeting president Victor Sciriha over lunch on Thursday. In the evening, he attended the launch of a new sponsor for First Division club Rabat Ajax.
  The Italian striker could arrive in January if the one of the two Nigerian players who will be on trial fails to impress. Otherwise Delvecchio will join the club in July.
  A product of Inter, the 35-year old striker made his debut in the Serie A for the nerazzurri in season 1991/92. He was loaned to Venezia and Udinese the following seasons. In 1994, he returned with Inter but in November 1995, he was transferred to Roma as part of an exchange deal with Marco Branca. He played for ten years for Roma, scoring 62 goals in 231 matches. He then played for Brescia, Parma and Ascoli and finally for Pescatori Ostia.
  For the Italian national team, he played 22 matches, scoring four goals between 1998 and 2004.
  Valletta have currently only one foreigner on their books - the striker from Cameroon Njongo Priso after releasing Brazilian striker Marcelo Tolomeotti.
  A Nigerian player - Fredric Otikrepen, who is a former team mate of Frank Temile, is on trial with the club and another Nigerian player Sunday Gabriel is expected to be in Malta shortly.

Thu 30

• Gozo - First Division Victoria H. vs Ghajnsielem 1-1
• Gozo - Second Division Xewkija T. vs Zebbug R. 1-1
• Fraiser Eagle - a group of companies operating in the passenger transport, travel and logistics sectors - were unveiled as the main sponsors of First Division side Rabat Ajax during a conference which was held at the Le Meridien St. Julian's on Thursday.
  The Magpies will be playing First Division football this season after securing promotion last May, beating Balzan Youths in a promotion decider after ending their commitments in joint-first place with San Gwann.
  Addressing the guests, Group Managing Director Kevin Dean said that as part of the group's corporate social responsibility, Fraser Eagle wants to invest in the community. For this reason, the group sponsors two English football clubs - League Two side Accrington Stanley and Blackburn Rovers together with the Blackburn Cathedral choir. With the sponsorships of these football clubs, the group aimed at bringing forward and encouraging sport in the North West - where the group is based.
  Dean said that rather than considering top clubs, the group often looks at clubs in a development stage. Clubs which have the dynamism and look forward. He said that the group was proud to be associated with Rabat Ajax and was looking forward to working with club president Dr Michael Sciriha for the good of the club.
  Fraser Eagle is hoping to encourage English clubs which are sponsored by the group to support sport in Malta as well. This will also take place with regards to the Blackburn Cathedral choir which will be visiting Malta next year.
  Rabat Ajax president Dr Michael Sciriha said that over the past years, the club went through several ups and downs but notwithstanding the several limitations, the people forming part of the committee in previous years had managed to keep the club alive and they have to be thanked for this.
  Dr Sciriha said that now that the club managed to secure this sponsorship, it was now up to the committee and to the players to work hard to make Fraser Eagle proud of sponsoring the club.
  He went on to say that now the club has to become more forward-looking. While maintaining the present policy of home-grown players, strengthening the club - including putting the club on a sound financial basis - was of utmost importance. However the Rabat president insisted on everyone at the club to keep their feet on the ground.
  Dr Sciriha once again thanked Fraser Eagle for their sponsorship and especially Mr Kevin Dean for his help. He also thanked other sponsors who are helping the club.
  Fraiser Eagle Group Managing Director Kevin Dean presented the Rabat Ajax shirt carrying the Fraser Eagle logo to Rabat captain Keith Micallef while Dr Michael Sciriha presented him with a memento.
  Among the distinguished guests for this presentation was former Inter, Roma and Italian national team striker Marco Delvecchio who is currently in Malta, thanks to FIFA Licensed Players Agent Dr Lucio Sciriha, for discussions with Valletta.
  Delvecchio also delivered a short message, wishing Rabat Ajax success in their league campaign.
• Former Inter, Roma and Italian national team striker Marco Delvecchio could join champions Valletta.
  Delvecchio arrived in Malta for discussions with Valletta FC, meeting president Victor Sciriha over lunch on Thursday. In the evening, he attended the launch of a new sponsor for First Division club Rabat Ajax.
  A product of Inter, the 35-year old striker made his debut in the Serie A for the nerazzurri in season 1991/92. He was loaned to Venezia and Udinese the following seasons. In 1994, he returned with Inter but in November 1995, he was transferred to Roma as part of an exchange deal with Marco Branca. He played for ten years for Roma, scoring 62 goals in 231 matches. He then played for Brescia, Parma and Ascoli and finally for Pescatori Ostia.
  For the Italian national team, he played 22 matches, scoring four goals between 1998 and 2004.
  Valletta have currently only one foreigner on their books - the striker from Cameroon Njongo Priso after releasing Brazilian striker Marcelo Tolomeotti.
  A Nigerian player - Fredric Otikrepen, who is a former team mate of Frank Temile, is on trial with the club and another Nigerian player Sunday Gabriel is expected to be in Malta shortly.
• The Malta Under-16 side lost 1-4 to Belgium in a second friendly match at the Stade Creve Biegny on Thursday.
  Michael Camilleri scored the only goal for Malta. At the end of the first half, the score was 2-0.
  In another friendly match on Monday, Malta lost 8-0.

Wed 29

• Third Division Section A Ghaxaq vs Gudja U. 1-3
• Third Division Section B Zejtun C. vs Siggiewi 1-2
• Gozo - First Division Qala SJ vs Sannat L. 1-1
• Two players were suspended for one match after being sent off during the U*BET FA Trophy match between Senglea Athletic and St. Patrick.
  Christopher Borg (Senglea) and Thomas Caruana (St. Patrick) were handed a one-match ban but while Caruana will serve the ban in the FA Trophy second round match against Floriana, Borg will be missing the BOV First Division League match against St. George's as Senglea have already been eliminated from the competition.
  Glenn Vella (Mellieha) and Christian Attard (Pembroke) were both suspended for two matches in the Youth League.
• The Interfaculty Football Tournament will be launched at the University of Malta on Wednesday 5th November 2008, as part of the European Youth Week. It is aimed at bringing students together and inducing physical activity into their daily routine. Here is the opportunity for students to break the mould and enrol themselves for the event that promises to leave a mark in the University's social calendar.
  The Malta University Sports Club (MUSC) has joined forces with the Kunsill ta l-Istudenti Universitarji (KSU) to organise this tournament and create a little harmless rivalry between faculties all in the name of good sportsmanship. Games will be held every Wednesday between 12pm and 2pm during which students are also invited to show their support @ the synthetic grounds near the National Pool, opposite the University Sports Hall, where they are guaranteed to be welcomed by an overwhelming atmosphere!
  Students can contribute by teaming up for the 5-a-side football games and benefitting from a medal for participation in hope of attaining the trophies that will also be awarded to each player of the winning team at the final. This year, players will not only be enhancing their health and fitness level but they also stand to add to their faculty's achievements by a shield that will be awarded to the faculty of the winning team.
  Contact sports@musc.org.mt for an application or download it from our websites: www.musc.org.mt; www.ksu.org.mt . Applications are to be posted at MUSC office (near Agenda Bookshop) or KSU (Students' House).

Tue 28

• Gozo - Second Division Gharb R. vs St. Lawrence S. 0-4
• Applications are now open for girls born after January 1, 1994 to join the Valletta FC Nursery.
  Those interested should visit the Valletta FC Nursery at the Salinos Ground on Tuesdays or Thursdays between 17:30 and 19:00 or phone 27242952. More details can also be obtained by email on info@vallettafcnursery.com

Mon 27

• Third Division Section A Xghajra T. vs Luqa SA 2-1
• Third Division Section B Attard vs Gzira U. 1-1

Sun 26

• FA Trophy Tarxien R. vs Mqabba 4-2, Dingli S. vs Floriana 0-3
• Second Division Naxxar L. vs Mgarr U. 0-0, Zebbug R. vs Gozo 1-1
• Gozo - First Division Kercem A. vs Victoria H. 1-2
• Gozo - Second Division Xaghra U. vs Zebbug R. 3-1

Sat 25

• FA Trophy Mosta vs Vittoriosa S. 0-2, St. Patrick vs Senglea A. 3-2
• Gozo - First Division SK Victoria W. vs Nadur Y. 0-0
• Gozo - Second Division Xewkija T. vs Oratory Y. 2-2
• Luqa St. Andrew's Youth Nursery will be organising a one-day Under-11 Festival at the Luqa St. Andrew's FC Complex on Saturday 11th November 2008.
  All those nurseries interested in taking part are asked to contact the nursery on 99821120 or e-mail at luqayn@gmail.com.
  Participation in the festival is free of charge but places are limited.

Fri 24

• Bulgarian defender Emil Yantchev left Birkirkara to join a club in Northern Cyprus. This was revealed by the club's website www.birkirkarafc.com
  The Cyprus Turkish Football Federation is not recognised by either FIFA or UEFA and for this reason, the player needs no international clearance certificate to join this new club even if he is still under contract with the Stripes.
  Yantchev had joined Birkirkara in summer 2005 after playing for Levski Sofia, Svetkavica, Naftex and Neftohimik in his home country. After winning the title with the Stripes, he was released and joined Marsa. However after just one season with Marsa, he returned with Birkirkara, where he formed a good partnership with Danish defender Ronni Hartvig over the past fifteen months.
  Besides Hartvig, the other foreigner on the books of Birkirkara is Brazilian striker William Sander Landim.
• Melita F.C. have appointed former Sliema Wanderers and Malta national team player Martin Gregory as the club's Head Coach in the Senior Sector. This decision was taken during a committee meeting on Thursday during which Gregory was presented to the committee members.
  The new Melita coach will be officially introduced and presented to the first team squad by the Club's President, Anton Naudi, next Monday before his first official training session.
  With this new acquisition, Melita F.C. intend to continue with its current good form in the Second Division in a bid to gain promotion to the First Division.

Thu 23

• The Malta Under-16 side will be travelling to Belgium to play two friendly matches against Belgium.
  The two matches will be played on Tuesday 28th and Thursday 30th October at the Stade Communal of R. Harve FC and at the Stade Cref Biegny respectively.
  These matches will be in preparation for the future competitive commitments of the Under-17 side in the European mini-tournaments.
  The players selected by Oliver Spiteri and his assistant Ramon Zammit are:
  goalkeepers Jurgen Borg (Floriana), Carlos Dimech (Pietà);
  defenders Lee Galea (San Gwann), Steve Agius (Qormi), Brandon Gatt (Hibs), Christian Grech (Pietà), Zach Muscat (Pietà);
  midfielders Ian Scerri (Hibs), Bjorn Kristensen (Pietà), Sacha Borg (Floriana), John Debono (Naxxar), Joseph Massa (Hibs), Dylan D'Agostino (Valletta), Marlon Farrugia (Sliema);
  forwards Matthew Hammett (Hibs), Michael Camilleri (Birkirkara), Ryan Dalli (Sliema), Christian Briffa (Hibs).
  Also accompanying the squad besides the two coaches is team doctor Dr. Clive Bezzina, physiotherapist Aaron Saliba, kit manager Mark Piscopo and Head of Delegation Salvu Vella.

Wed 22

• Four Premier League players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner following the weekend's matches. The four players are Gaetan Spiteri (Hamrun), Jonathan Pearson (Hibs), Andre Rocha Da Silva (Msida) and Ramon Schembri (Tarxien).
  Spiteri and Da Silva were sent off in the clash between Msida and Hamrun while Pearson and Schembri collected their fourth yellow card.
  Gaetan Spiteri is ruled out of the clash between Hamrun and Qormi on November 23. Ramon Schembri and Pearson will be missing the game between Hibs and Tarxien in programme on November 15 while Da Silva is ruled out of the game against Sliema on November 16.
  In Division 2, Cedric Sciberras (Balzan) and Jason Cassar (Birzebbuga) were suspended for one match. Maverick Grech and Andrew Formosa (Qrendi) and Shawn D'Amato (Sta. Lucia) were handed a one-match ban.
  John Deitmar Darmanin (Birzebbuga), Tyrone Pace (Dingli), Shaun Zammit (Mqabba) and Laurent Farrugia (Sta. Venera) were suspended for one match in the Youth League.
• Mdina Knights FC is proud to announce the Alberta Group as main corporate partners for season 2008/09.
  This partnership has renewed Alberta Managing Director, George Barbaro Sant's connection with the former capital city "My involvement with Mdina football activities goes back a few years when Joe Vella (President Mdina Knights FC) and I used to play for Mdina Sports Club, the predecessors of Mdina Knights" Mr. Barbaro Sant explained.
  "Mdina Knights is more than just a football club, it has a vision and strongly believes in giving back to the community, through its 'Mdina Knights Foundation' – a philanthropic entity whose mission is to instil genuine values of sports through the development of social, educational and sporting activities.
  "The Knights support others and have a value-set very similar to ours. These strong similarities encouraged Alberta Group to associate itself with the Club and to support it in any way possible.
  "Mr. Barbaro Sant made a token presentation of the home kit to be worn by Mdina Knights FC, kindly supplied by Urban Jungle, local agents for Nike.

Tue 21

• Steve D'Amato is the new coach of Hamrun Spartans. He replaces Marco Gerada whose had handed his resignation after the dramatic 2-3 defeat to Msida St. Joseph on Saturday.
  D'Amato has been coaching Melita for the past years. Last season, he led the Amateurs to winning the quick-Keno Second & Third Knock-Out.
  Gerada had joined Hamrun before the end of last season, guiding the Spartans to a top six finish and to the final of the U*BET FA Trophy. This season, the club had high hopes of doing well but so far, they collected just two points in draws with Floriana and Tarxien, losing the other five matches against Sliema, Marsaxlokk, Hibs, Birkirkara and Msida.
  The next BOV Premier League game for the Spartans is on November 23 against Qormi but in ten days' time, they will be facing First Division side Rabat Ajax in a first round clash from the U*BET FA Trophy.

Mon 20

• Third Division Section A Sirens vs Qrendi 2-1
• Third Division Section B Santa Lucia vs Pembroke A. 1-0
• Hamrun Spartans are in search of a new coach after the committee accepted the resignation of Marco Gerada. Gerada handed his resignation after the dramatic 2-3 defeat to Msida St. Joseph on Saturday.
  Gerada had joined Hamrun before the end of last season. He guided the Spartans to a top six finish and to the final of the U*BET FA Trophy. This season, the club had high hopes of doing well but so far, they collected just two points in draws with Floriana and Tarxien, losing the other five matches against Sliema, Marsaxlokk, Hibs, Birkirkara and Msida.
  The next BOV Premier League game for the Spartans is on November 23 against Qormi but in ten days' time, they will be facing First Division side Rabat Ajax in a first round clash from the U*BET FA Trophy.
• FIFA Referee Marco Borg, accompanied by Joseph Camilleri, FIFA Assistant Referee, will be in the Canary Islands for the UEFA Under-17 Group 13 Mini-Tournament which is being played from the 22nd to the 27th October 2008.
  The four nations taking part in this tournament are Spain, Armenia, Estonia and England.
  Mr Borg, assisted by Mr Camilleri, will be controlling the England v Armenia and Armenia vs Spain matches on the 22nd and 24th October respectively.
  The Maltese officials will also act as Fourth Official and Assistant Referee in the Spain vs England match on 27th October.

Sun 19

• Premier League Tarxien R. vs Marsaxlokk 3-1, Birkirkara vs Sliema W. 4-2
• Second Division Birzebbuga SP vs Mellieha 1-1, Marsa vs Lija A. 0-4
• Third Division Section A Luqa SA vs Fgura U. 0-2, Gharghur vs Ghaxaq 4-1
• Gozo - First Division Qala SJ vs SK Victoria W. 0-4, Ghajnsielem vs Sannat L. 0-4
• The BOV First Division League will kick-off a week earlier than originally planned.
  In fact, the matches Vittoriosa S. vs Dingli S. and Mosta vs Mqabba will be played on November 1 rather than November 8.
  Further changes in fixtures will be necessary to the first round of matches, considering that during the weekend November 8 and 9, there will be the U*BET FA Trophy second round matches and at least one First Division team will be involved that weekend.

Sat 18

• Premier League Floriana vs Hibernians 2-1, Msida SJ vs Hamrun S. 3-2
• Second Division Mgarr U. vs St. Andrews 1-1, Melita vs Balzan Y. 0-0
• Gozo - First Division Nadur Y. vs Kercem A. 1-1
• Gozo - Second Division Munxar F. vs Gharb R. 1-1
• An open day is being organised at the Victor Tedesco Stadium on Saturday 25 October 2008 for boys and girls aged between 4 and 12 years. This will be a unique opportunity for young footballers to train at a football stadium where top-level football is played. The main pitch will be divided into five mini-pitches and practice sessions will be carried out for five categories according to the age group: boys aged 4 to 6 years; 7 to 8 years; 9 to 10 years; 11 to 12 years and girls aged between 4 and 12 years.
  The practice sessions are free and everyone is welcome to attend. The open day may be a good opportunity for boys and girls who are not registered with any football nursery to experience the welcome environment of the Hamrun nursery and perhaps could encourage them to take the game more seriously and, at the same time, keep fit and healthy. The children may start the training session at any time between 8.30am and 11.00am and may leave at any time. Training will be provided by qualified coaches and sessions will end at 11.30am. No training kit is required, however football shirts of other teams (including foreign teams) and metal studs will not be allowed.
  A FIFA-approved 2-star artificial turf pitch has just been laid at the Victor Tedesco Stadium. The improvements have been financed by UEFA through MFA, government, private investors and the club itself. A number of volunteers also helped in embellishments of the stadium itself.
  The event is being organised by Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery. The nursery was established in 1987 and currently provides training to over 230 boys and girls. Throughout the years, the nursery has established itself as one of the best on the island and proof of this is that a number of its products have managed to wear the Malta shirt both at national team level and at Under 21 level.
  During the past two years, the nursery has been doing its utmost to increase the number of girls with the aim of contributing towards women’s football in Malta. This has been successfully achieved as a good number of girls have joined the nursery. In fact, the nursery has now embarked on a new initiative on behalf of Hamrun Spartans FC to launch a women’s team which will be competing in the MFA Second Division. The girls may now look forward to play for the senior team. Girls are particularly welcome to attend the training sessions during the open day.
  For further information on the event and on the Hamrun Nursery, one may visit the nursery website www.hamrunnursery.com or send an email on info@hamrunnursery.com or mariodebattista@onvol.net or by calling phone numbers 79496363 / 79478302 / 79462811.

Fri 17

• The Malta Football Association once again joins the UEFA campaign against racism, with the collaboration of FARE - Fight Against Racism In Europe which is being held between October 16 and 28.
  A statement by MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud will be read during all matches in programme on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19.
  The statement says:
  

  Although racism is not so evident in our stadiums, the negative sentiments are always a threat to our game as there could be occasions where people take advantage of the fact that football reaches a large number of people in order to manifest their negative sentiments.
  The emphasis is on beauty of the game - the joy and disappointment expressed by those who go to stadiums and those who follow football on TV. This should be free of any kind of discrimination.
  The Malta Football Association takes the opportunity to convey this message, not only to those involved in the game, but also to the Maltese public in general. Those involved in the game should remember that they are setting the example which the younger players will be following by showing tolerance.
  The Association believes that racism cannot be overcome only by the enforcement of regulations, but particularly by the example set by the protagonists of the game.
  At the same time the MFA also believes that this phenomenon should be eliminated from every sector of society, including the world of football. This can be achieved through our good example with the co-operation of all those who love the game and in further acknowledgement that this sport is centred on Fair Play with everyone.

• Mdina Knights FC are pleased to announce that player Clint Caruana is now in a stable condition, following the unfortunate accident that took place on Monday 13th October during the BOV Third Division match played against Gudja United.
  The player in question was discharged from Mater Dei Hospital on Thursday 16th October and is now in the process of a full recovery.
  The accident could have had more serious consequences had it not been for the prompt actions taken by Mdina Knights' player Liam Mercieca who is a 5th year medical student, Centenary Stadium Grounds man Mr. Anthony Zarb and Dr. David Attard and his assistant who happened to be in the vicinity.
  Mdina Knights would like to thank the Gudja United players and staff for their continuous support during the incident, the ambulance staff and the staff at the Mater Dei Emergency, ITU and NSU wards for their efficiency and service.
  Mdina Knights' committee members, players and supporters augur Clint Caruana a quick recovery.
• The Malta Football Association would like to thank the South End Core and all the other fans including Gozitans, who supported the team on Wednesday against the Hungarians. The Magyars came back to Ta Qali to even the score after our 2-1 victory against them 2 years ago. The constant cheering and chanting was certainly stimulating to the players who tried their best to try and reward everyone present at the stadium.
  As South End Core's spokesman, Mr. Louis Agius, said, "we will be behind the team now more than ever". Yesterday was proof that this group has Malta at heart and is ready to go a long way to continue and promote anything which is Maltese. The South Stand was again clad in black, red and white with an organised choreography and the beating of the drums. No wonder various personalities choose to go to the South Stand to support our team.
  We will strive on in the quest to improve ourselves, as will the players who although disappointed after the match felt they would like to thank again everyone who in some way or another support them.
• During this Christmas period, precisely between 26th and 30th December 2008, Italian Serie A team, Atalanta B.C. in collaboration with Birkirkara F.C. Youth Nursery will be organising for the third time in Malta, a five day Football Stage at the New Infetti Artificial Pitches in Bontadini Street, Birkirkara.
  This event is open to all children living in Malta and Gozo aged between 7 and 12 (born in 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001) and consists mainly of an hour and a half training session (six in all) delivered by professional Italian youth coaches working at Atalanta B.C. This year's programme will include also goalkeeper's training.
  The fee of €100 per participant includes:
  Six training sessions (1 ½ hour each) under the guidance of Italian youth coaches
  Full training kit
  Technical report
  Various Atalanta B.C. merchandise
  Mr Stefano Bonaccorso, Mr Massimo Biffi and Mr Andrea Pandolfi, all professional coaches who work with youth teams at Atalanta in Zigonia will be amongst the coaches present during this stage, with the former tutor involved also at FIGC Youth sector level.
  The number of children participating is on a first come first served basis. Therefore, all those interested in attending may contact Mr Franco Agius (79438515) or Mr Henry Bray (99468248) for further details. It is surely the ideal gift for this Christmas and a memorable experience for all football lovers!

Wed 15

• 2010 FIFA World Cup Malta vs Hungary 0-1
  National coach Dusan Fitzel was satisfied with the players' reaction in the narrow 0-1 defeat to Hungary following the recent disappointing outings.
  Speaking after the game, Fitzel said that he was focussing mainly on his players rather than on the Hungarian team as they had to prove themselves, especially after the poor showing in Denmark.
  "I told them that they had to pull their sleeves and fight ... show that the team is not only a loser and that we could gain something," said Fitzel.
  "I cannot accept my players not giving their hundred per cent. I am happy that they did what I had asked them to do. The most positive aspect for me is that they showed me this."
  He said that the performance of the team was satisfactory during the first half but started the second half with less concentration. Hungary were then happy with the result and we created a couple of chances thanks to which we could have equalised.
  "We pressed them a lot and did not allow them to play their game," said Fitzel.
  The Malta coach however pointed out that he had prepared the players for the same move between Roland Juhasz and Sandor Torghelle which led to the only goal.
  Fitzel defended his decision to utilise Michael Mifsud in the position he employed him on Wednesday, saying that the Coventry striker is always being followed closely by defenders besides the fact that he is not in his best form right now.
  The Malta coach went on to speak about his position and the future, saying that three years ago he moved to Malta to offer his help in order to improve things.
  But now personal reasons could influence his future. He said that next Monday, he will be moving to the Czech Republic for an 8-day holiday and during this short break, he will be reflecting on his position, admitting that sometimes he feels his work is not being appreciated by all. The Malta coach said that over the past three years, he hardly had any time to visit his family who still lives in the Czech Republic.
  Once again he mentioned the fact that for the players, training is fun not working to improve. He said that good spirit is good but the players take this too far.
  "In Malta, players do not have a proper pre-season and no proper football season considering the break due to the re-seeding in October/November, the Christmas break and other breaks due to postponed matches," said Fitzel.
  He revealed that for the game against Iceland, in programme on November 19, new players will be introduced.
  Fitzel did not rule out giving a second chance to Lokomotiv Sofia striker Daniel Bogdanovic and the inclusion of Igea Virtus defender Andrei Agius.
• Malta's only FIFA Woman Referee, Esther Azzopardi Farrugia, has been appointed as referee in the UEFA European Women's Under-17 Championship Group 5 Mini-Tournament which will be held in Antalya, Turkey between the 17th and the 24th October.
  Taking part in the tournament are Turkey, Faroe Islands, Republic of Ireland and Netherlands.
  Jurgen Spiteri will act as Assistant referee in this tournament.

Tue 14

• Gozo - First Division Victoria H. vs Qala SJ 1-1
• Following a most disappointing performance in the last game against Denmark last Saturday, Malta will be aiming at regaining lost pride on Wednesday as Dusan Fitzel's side hosts Hungary in another match from the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the National Stadium, kick-off at 19:30.
  The game in Copenhagen was the third one for Malta in the group following a 0-4 defeat to Portugal at Ta' Qali and a 3-0 loss to Albania in Tirana. Three matches in which Malta suffered ten goals and scored none. Three matches which extend the negative run to five matches, considering the 5-1 defeat to Austria and 2-1 defeat to Estonia in two friendly matches away from home. Defeats which soon brought the national team down to earth following the memorable 7-1 win over Liechtenstein.
  Against Denmark, what worried most was the performance of the team rather than the result and therefore the main objective on Wednesday will be that of a good display.
  The game against Hungary brings back sweet memories of some of the best results obtained by Malta over the past years. Malta had managed to hold Hungary at Ta' Qali in a 2-2 draw in December 1988 before holding them in another 1-1 draw in April 1989 in Budapest in the 1990 World Cup qualifiers. Two years ago, in a EURO 2008 qualifier, Malta registered a 2-1 win, courtesy of an Andre Schembri brace. The other seven matches ended in wins for Hungary - the last one being a 2-0 win in Budapest this time last year.
  Malta coach Dusan Fitzel is expected to make a number of changes from the team which lost to Denmark.
  Justin Haber will be confirmed in goal but there could be two changes in defence with Brian Said replacing Luke Dimech and Shaun Bajada starting on the left instead of Ian Azzopardi. Hibernians duo Jonathan Caruana and Aaron Xuereb should retain their place on the right and in central defence respectively.
  In midfield, Udo Nwoko is expected to start and with Andre Schembri probably playing in midfield together with Ivan Woods, Roderick Briffa and one player between Gilbert Agius and Jamie Pace should start on the bench.
  In attack, Etienne Barbara should accompany Michael Mifsud.
  Hungary played three matches so far. Following a goalless draw with Denmark in Budapest, they lost 2-1 to Sweden in Solna but bounced back with a 2-0 win over Albania at home last Saturday thanks to second-half goals by Sandor Torghelle and Roland Juhasz.
  Hungary coach Erwin Koeman, who was appointed as the new coach last May, is expected to adopt the same offensive approach as for the last game, making only one change to the starting line-up. In fact, Zoltan Gera will be back after serving a one-match ban.
  Goalkeeper Marton Fulop will replace once again the injured Gabor Babos with the four defenders being Zoltan Szelesi, Roland Juhasz, Vilmos Vanczak and Laszlo Bodnar.
  Pal Dardai will start as defensive midfielder with the other four midfielders being Zoltan Gera, Tamas Hajnal, Peter Halmosi and Szabolcs Huszti. Sandor Torghelle will be the only striker.
  Gera replaces Balazs Dsudzsak as Hajnal who suffered a slight injury in Saturday's game is still expected to be named in the starting line-up.
  Malta vs Hungary will be controlled by referee Johannes Valgeirsson from Iceland who will be assisted by Olaf Ingvar Gudfinnsson, Johann Gunnar Gudmundsson and fourth official Magnus Thosisson.
  Tickets for the various sections will only be available from the Stadium selling points prior to kick-off depending on availability.
  Match-ticket prices are as follows:
  West A Upper and West C Upper: €25;
  West A Lower and West C Lower: €12;
  Millennium Stand: €8;
  North Stand and South End Core: €5.
  Public Transport will be available from City Gate, direct to the National Stadium at Ta' Qali, starting at 18:00. Transport from the National Stadium to Valletta at the end of the match starts at around 21:15.
  The gates at the National Stadium will be open to the public two hours prior to match kick-off - that is at 17:30.
  Prior to the match, starting at 18.30, entertainment will be provided at the stadium with Peter Busuttil as the Master of Ceremonies.

Mon 13

• Third Division Section A Gudja U. vs Mdina K. 1-2
• Third Division Section B Kirkop U. vs Zejtun C. 0-4
• National coach Dusan Fitzel expressed his disappointment after the poor performance against Denmark, saying that he did not witness any positive aspect from the game in Copenhagen and took the complete responsibility for this defeat. Fitzel was speaking during a press conference after the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Denmark and ahead of the game against Hungary in programme on Wednesday.
  "I am clearly disappointed with our performance so far. We lost the three matches, we suffered ten goals and we did not score. We hardly created any goal-scoring chances. I understand the fans' disappointment. They want us to win every game but reality is different," said Fitzel.
  Speaking about the criticism he received following recent comments, the Malta coach said that he is trying to be as realistic as possible but said that people "do not like to be realistic."
  "I assume complete responsibility for the team's performance. However as it is usually the case in football, when a team wins the players take the praise and when a team loses, it is the coach who takes the blame," said Fitzel.
  "Players know that I expect from them. But sometimes it seems that I am talking a language that they do not understand. Something wrong has happened and my job is to find out what. I would have to change about six players but this is not possible due to the limitations of Maltese football," continued the Malta national coach.
  MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud also expressed his disappointment after the game against Denmark. "As a national team supporter, I would be lying were I to say that I am not disappointed with the performance and result of the game. However as president of the Malta Football Association, ny job is to see what can be done to improve our performance."
  Dr Mifsud said that the association was expecting a tough start to this difficult campaign, considering that we were due to meet the top seed in the group - Portugal in the first game, followed by two matches away from home.
  "Players like Brian Said and Gilbert Agius are getting older. But until you get new players to replace them, it takes time. New players need experience - something which could only be obtained by playing for the national team since few of our players have the chance to play abroad," said Dr Mifsud.
  The MFA president said the game against Hungary will be another difficult test.
  "Naturally fans will be expecting a positive result and performance following the excellent win over Hungary two years ago. We hope that the performance will be the best one so far in this campaign and the support could play an important role in getting a good result," said Dr Mifsud.
  "What is for sure is that we will continue to do our best notwithstanding our limitations," concluded the MFA president.
  National coach Fitzel said that the Hungarians will be coming to Malta to win.
  Two years ago, Malta registered a 2-1 win. Since then Hungary changed two coaches but the bulk of the players more or less remained the same. According to Fitzel, this game will be a good test to compare how the two teams improved over the past two years.
  Coventry striker Michael Mifsud said that the players are looking forward towards doing well next Wednesday after the disappointing performance in Denmark.
  Speaking on behalf of the South End Core, Louis Agius said that in this situation, it would be easier for fans to throw the towel and abandon the team. However the South End Core is proud to stay behind the team in order to raise the morale of the players. He said that supporters need to be at Ta' Qali on Wednesday and make their voices heard. Agius finally concluded by an appeal towards the players to honour the shirt they are wearing.
  The provisional squad selected by Fitzel is currently made up of 23 players which will then be trimmed to eighteen players.
  The twenty-three players are:
  goalkeepers Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Justin Haber (Sheffield United - ENG), Mario Muscat (Hibs);
  defenders Ian Azzopardi (Sliema), Shaun Bajada (Birkirkara), Roderick Briffa (Sliema), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Luke Dimech (Valletta), Brian Said (Marsaxlokk), Kenneth Scicluna (Valletta), Stephen Wellman (Marsaxlokk), Aaron Xuereb (Hibs);
  midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Roderick Bajada (Sliema), Cleavon Frendo (Valletta), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Udo Nwoko (Leixoes), Jamie Pace (Valletta), Ivan Woods (Sliema);
  forwards Etienne Barbara (Verl - GER), Michael Mifsud (Coventry - ENG), Terence Scerri (Hibs), Andre Schembri (Carl Zeiss Jena - GER).
  Malta vs Hungary will be kick-off at 19:30 and will be controlled by referee Johannes Valgeirsson from Iceland who will be assisted by Olaf Ingvar Gudfinnsson, Johann Gunnar Gudmundsson and fourth official Magnus Thosisson.

Sun 12

• First Division Knock-Out Mqabba vs Vittoriosa S. 3-2, Senglea A. vs St. Patrick 0-4
• Second Division Lija A. vs Birzebbuga SP 1-0, Sta. Venera L. vs Zebbug R. 1-1, Gozo vs Naxxar L. 2-0
• Third Division Section A Kalkara vs Qrendi 0-0
• Third Division Section B Siggiewi vs Attard 0-0
• Gozo - First Division SK Victoria W. vs Ghajnsielem 1-1

Sat 11

• FIFA World Cup DENMARK vs MALTA 3-0
• First Division Knock-Out Rabat A. vs Dingli S. 0-2, Mosta vs St. George's 1-1
• Second Division Mellieha vs Mgarr U. 3-0, Balzan Y. vs Marsa 2-0
• Gozo - Second Division Oratory Y. vs Xaghra U. 0-3, St. Lawrence S. vs Xewkija T. 1-2

Fri 10

• Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs Nadur Y. 1-1
• Malta faces a most difficult task on Saturday as the national team meets Denmark in another match from Group 1 of the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying round at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, kick-off at 20:00.
  Although national coach Dusan Fitzel admitted during a press conference on Monday that he would be satisfied if Malta does not concede a defeat with no more than four goals, the players will definitely aim at doing better than that. Speaking during the same press conference, Luke Dimech said that although the game was definitely a most difficult one, he hoped the team would perform well in Copenhagen as it was the case seven years ago when at the same venue, Malta suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat.
  Besides Luke Dimech, Brian Said, Gilbert Agius and Michael Mifsud were also part of the team which played that game. George Mallia - the player who had put Malta ahead after just eight minutes, before Ebbe Sand scored twice for the Danish - is however missing from the squad.
  Also missing from the squad are Mario Muscat, Ryan Fenech, Cleavon Frendo and Kevin Sammut. On the other hand, Andrew Hogg, Ian Azzopardi, Jonathan Caruana, Udo Nwoko and Ivan Woods, are all back in squad after missing the game against Albania for one reason or another.
  Valletta goalkeeper Andrew Hogg and Leixoes striker Udo Nwoko missed the three matches played so far this season - the friendly match against Estonia and the World Cup qualifiers against Portugal and Albania as they were recovering from injuries. Ian Azzopardi had missed the two World Cup qualifiers for family reasons while Woods skipped the game against Albania after suffering a slight injury in the game against Portugal.
  From the team which lost to Albania, Fitzel is forced to make at least one change due to the absence of Kevin Sammut. However this should not be the only change.
  Although Andrew Hogg is back, Justin Haber should be confirmed in goal with Luke Dimech and Aaron Xuereb as central defenders, Roderick Briffa and Ian Azzopardi on the flanks. Jonathan Caruana could replace Briffa.
  In midfield, Udo Nwoko could stand in for Kevin Sammut although the Nigerian-born midfielder has just recovered from a long term injury and is yet to make his first league appearance for Leixoes this season. Gilbert Agius and Jamie Pace should make it to the starting line-up, probably together with Ivan Woods. The other option is Etienne Barbara.
  Michael Mifsud and Andre Schembri should start in attack.
  The other players at the disposal of Dusan Fitzel are Shaun Bajada, Brian Said, Kenneth Scicluna and Terence Scerri.
  Denmark had a most positive start to their World Cup campaign, collecting four points from two matches played away from home. In Budapest, Morten Olsen's side earned a point in a goalless draw and four days later, the Danish registered a fine 3-2 win over Portugal.
  Fiorentina duo Per Kroldrup and Martin Jorgensen will miss the game against Malta due to an ankle injury and flu respectively while captain Jon Dahl Tomasson and Nicklas Bendtner are expected to be fit after recovering from ankle injuries.
  Danish coach Morten Olsen selected the following players for this game, namely:
  goalkeepers Jesper Christiansen (FC Kobenhavn), Stephan Andersen (Brondby IF), Thomas Sorensen (Stoke City);
  defenders Anders Moller Christensen (OB), Daniel Agger (Liverpool), Kasper Bogelund (AaB), Martin Laursen (Aston Villa), Thomas Rasmussen (Brondby IF);
  midfielders Christian Poulsen (Juventus), Daniel Jensen (Werder Bremen), Jonas Borring (FC Midtjylland), Leon Andreasen (Fulham), Martin Vingaard (Esbjerg fB), Thomas Kahlenberg (AJ Auxerre), Thomas F. Kristensen (FC Kobenhavn);
  forwards Dennis Rommedahl (AFC Ajax), Jon Dahl Tomasson (Feyenoord), Michael Krohn-Dehli (Brondby IF), Morten Nordstrand (FC Kobenhavn), Nicklas Bendtner (Arsenal), Soren Larsen (Toulouse FC).
  Malta and Denmark met five times with the Danish claiming five wins out of five. In the qualifiers for the 1964 European Championship, Denmark won 6-1 at home and 3-1 at the Gzira Stadium. In February 1989, Denmark won 2-0 in a match from the Rothmans Tournament while the last two matches, forming part of the 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifying round, Denmark won 5-0 at Ta' Qali and 2-1 in Copenhagen.
  Denmark vs Malta will be played on Saturday at 20:00 at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen. The game will be controlled by Levan Paniashvili who will be assisted by assistant referees Mamuka Elikashvili and Zurab Jvaridze and fourth official George Vadachkoria.
  GO Plus will be transmitting Denmark vs Malta live on Sports +4 Channel 854.

Wed 8

• National coach Dusan Fitzel named the eighteen-man squad which leaves Malta on Thursday, destination Copenhagen, where Malta faces Denmark in another match from Group 1 of the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying round on Saturday.
  There are no less than five changes from the team which travelled to Tirana last month with Andrew Hogg, Ian Azzopardi, Jonathan Caruana, Udo Nwoko and Ivan Woods, all making their return after missing the game against Albania for one reason or another. They replace Mario Muscat, Ryan Fenech, Cleavon Frendo, George Mallia and Kevin Sammut.
  Valletta goalkeeper Andrew Hogg and Leixoes striker Udo Nwoko missed the three matches played so far this season - the friendly match against Estonia and the World Cup qualifiers against Portugal and Albania as they were recovering from injuries. Hogg returned for Valletta in mid-September while Nwoko has just recovered from a long term injury and is yet to make his first league appearance for Leixoes.
  Ian Azzopardi had missed the two World Cup qualifiers for family reasons while Woods skipped the game against Albania after suffering a slight injury in the game against Portugal.
  The eighteen players selected by Fitzel and his assistant Michael Striz are:
  goalkeepers Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Justin Haber (Sheffield United - ENG);
  defenders Ian Azzopardi (Sliema), Shaun Bajada (Birkirkara), Roderick Briffa (Sliema), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Luke Dimech (Valletta), Brian Said (Marsaxlokk), Kenneth Scicluna (Valletta), Aaron Xuereb (Hibs);
  midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Udo Nwoko (Leixoes), Jamie Pace (Valletta), Ivan Woods (Sliema);
  forwards Etienne Barbara (Verl - GER), Michael Mifsud (Coventry - ENG), Terence Scerri (Hibs), Andre Schembri (Carl Zeiss Jena - GER).
  The Maltese contingent led by MFA President Dr Joe Mifsud leaves on Thursday morning at 08:00 via Amsterdam and returns to Malta on Sunday 12 at 23:00.
  Denmark vs Malta will be played on Saturday at 20:00 at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen. The game will be controlled by Levan Paniashvili who will be assisted by assistant referees Mamuka Elikashvili and Zurab Jvaridze and fourth official George Vadachkoria.
• Following last month's defeats to Portugal and Albania, Malta lost no less than thirteen places in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking and is now ranked 146th. This is the worst ever ranking for Malta since when the ranking was first introduced in August 1993. The previous worst ranking was 144th in September 2006.
  Among the other European countries, Malta also dropped to the 50th place as countries like Montenegro climbed 19 places to 117th (44th in Europe), Luxembourg 29 places to 123rd (45th). Just ahead of Malta are Kazakhstan (131, down 11), Liechtenstein (135, down 5), Estonia (137, down 9) and Azerbaijan (143, down 5). The only countries lying behind Malta are Andorra (184), the Faroe Islands (198) and San Marino (200).
  Next Saturday, Malta faces Denmark at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen and four days later, Malta hosts Hungary at Ta' Qali. Denmark and Hungary are ranked 31st and 62nd respectively.
• No Premier League players were suspended by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner on Wednesday.
  In the First Division Knock-Out, Jesmond Delia (Pietà Hotspurs) was banned for one match while Charles Cachia (Vittoriosa Stars) was suspended for two matches.
  Marl Ellul (Birzebbuga) was suspended for two matches in Division 2 and Neville Arpa (Gharghur) was banned for two matches in Division 3. Albert Caruana (Ghaxaq) was handed a one-match ban.
  Matthew Mifsud (Marsa) and Kurt Vassallo (Xghajra) were both suspended for one match in the Youth League.
• Coldwell Banker real estate organisation will be the main sponsor for the San Gwann Youth Football Nursery Under 17 team for the current season. The agreement covers the purchase of a new set of home kits for the Nursery’s senior competitive category that has for the past few years been playing in Youth FA's Section A league and knock-out competitions.
  Ms. Graziella Vella, who heads one of the company’s branches presented the new kit to Vince Tanti, PRO of the Nursery at the clubs Training Grounds in a short ceremony attend by the players, club officials and parents.
  "Coldwell Banker is a pioneer in a lot of things, and when it comes to corporate social responsibility Coldwell Banker is a leader also in these kind of initiatives in any country where it operates. This sponsorship is a way of giving back to the community, and to help San Gwann Nursery encourage more children to get into sports" Ms. Graziella Vella said.
  Coldwell Banker is one of the largest players in the real estate industry. Starting out in the United States over a hundred years ago, it has presence 42 countries worldwide with a total of 3800 offices. Locally the company operates from four branches in Attard, Msida, Qormi and St. Paul’s Bay. Two more offices in St. Julians and in the South are scheduled to open in 2009.

Tue 7

• Third Division Section A Xghajra T. vs Sirens 1-1
• Third Division Section A Gzira U. vs Zurrieq 3-0
• Four goals netted during the month of September, three of which in the game against Floriana provided the base for Msida St. Joseph striker Pedro Dos Santos Calcado not only to re-launch his team into a much better position in the BOV Premier League after their heavy defeat to Hibernians in August, but also to help him beat the other contenders for the BOV Player of the Month award.
  The Msida striker made an immediate impact during his team's opening four matches and his top standing in the goalscorers' list with five goals is testimony to his predatory instincts. This excellent striking form will be of tremendous advantage for his team as the league progresses.
  Anthony Camilleri, Manager of Bank of Valletta's Msida Branch presented the BOV Player of the Month trophy to the winning player. Dos Santos Calcado thanked his team-mates who helped him make his goal-scoring spree possible and chose the Ursuline Creche in G'Mangia as the beneficiary of the cash donation made by BOV in association with this award.
• Dr Lucio Sciriha is the only FIFA-Licensed Players' Agent in Malta. The news was revealed during a meeting of the Council of the Malta Football Association on Thursday.
  Last month, six candidates sat for an exam to obtain the licence but all candidates failed the exam. The exam consists of twenty questions, fifteen set by FIFA on international regulations and five set by the MFA on national regulations. These questions are based on current football regulations, especially in connection with transfers (the statutes and regulations of FIFA, the confederations and the association in whose country the applicant is taking the examination) and knowledge of civil law (basic principles of personal rights) and the law of obligations (law of contract). Such exams are usually held twice a year.
  There were other FIFA-Licensed Players' Agents in Malta over the past years but FIFA regulations stipulate that the licence expires after five years and therefore one has to sit for an exam every five years and obtain a pass mark.

Mon 6

• Third Division Section A Ghaxaq vs Luqa SA 2-1
• Third Division Section A Pembroke A. vs Mtarfa 0-1
• National coach Dusan Fitzel admitted he would be satisfied if Malta were to avoid a heavy defeat in next Saturday's 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Denmark at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen. Fitzel was addressing a press conference at the Centenary Hall on Monday.
  The Malta coach said that as expected, the group we were playing in was very tough and that the results so far were confirming this.
  Fitzel is aware of the tough task for the Maltese team in Copenhagen, considering that Denmark obtained four matches so far from two matches played away from home, saying that he would be satisfied if the team were to lose but avoid a heavy defeat.
  The provisional squad for these games includes no less than thirty one players which include two new faces from the Under-21 side, namely Sliema Wanderers goalkeeper Henry Bonello and Andrei Agius who plays for the Lega Pro Seconda Divisione side Igea Virtus in Italy.
  Fitzel will only name the squad later this week considering that there are players like Kevin Sammut who missed a number of matches for Marsaxlokk, Cleavon Frendo who has just returned for Valletta from an injury while Mario Muscat, Peter Pullicino, Shaun Bajada and Jonathan Caruana suffered slight injuries during the weekend and therefore their fitness is yet to be assessed.
  MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud also said that the results so far in the first two matches - against Portugal and Albania - confirmed the association's expectations that the group was a most difficult one. However Dr Mifsud said that the team is preparing for these matches, hoping for a positive performance and hopefully a positive result in the coming games.
  The MFA president said that Malta will be trying to do well in the game against Denmark despite all odds but naturally, expectations will be higher for the game against Hungary in programme on Wednesday 15 at the National Stadium.
  The last time Malta hosted Hungary two years ago, Malta won 2-1 and therefore the locals will be aiming for a repeat of the positive performance and hopefully the positive result.
  Malta defender Luke Dimech hopes that the team will perform well against Denmark as it was the case seven years ago when at the same venue, Malta suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat. For the game against Hungary, Dimech said supporters could play an important role in helping the team achieve a good result.
  Speaking on behalf of the South End Core, Louis Agius said the past month was a busy one for the group considering the game against Portugal at Ta' Qali and the trip to Albania. In terms of support, Agius said that both matches turned out to be a huge success.
  He said the game against Hungary brings back beautiful memories of good results and therefore he appealed for constant support from local fans during the game to show that they are behind the national team.
  Tickets for Malta vs Hungary will be on sale as from Tuesday from:
  Geraldu Kiosk – Valletta;
  Star Tourism – Bugibba;
  Eros Stationery – Paceville;
  Teamsport – Iklin;
  MFA Health & Fitness Centre - Ta Qali;
  and the MFA Headquarters - Ta' Qali.
  Match-ticket prices are as follows:
  West A Upper and West C Upper: €25; West A Lower and West C Lower: €12;
  Millennium Stand: €8;
  North Stand: €5.
  South End Core tickets are already on sale for € 5 from:
  Mocean - Rabat, Gozo, Teamsport - Iklin, Rookies - Bugibba, Ryan's - St. Julian's, Extratime - Mosta, 47Summernights - Marsascala, Dual Zone - Paola, Premiershop - Zejtun, KSU - University Campus and Cafe Matteo - Valletta.
  On match day, tickets for the various sections will only be available from the Stadium selling points prior to kick-off depending on availability.
  Meanwhile tickets for the West 'B' VIP are only available from the MFA Headquarters at €75.
  Public Transport will be available from City Gate, direct to the National Stadium at Ta' Qali, starting at 18:00. Transport from the National Stadium to Valletta at the end of the match starts at around 21:15.
  The gates at the National Stadium will be open to the public two hours prior to match kick-off - that is at 17:30.
  Prior to the match, starting at 18.30, entertainment will be provided at the stadium with Peter Busuttil as the Master of Ceremonies.
  Malta vs Hungary will be kick-off at 19:30 and will be controlled by referee Johannes Valgeirsson from Iceland who will be assisted by Olaf Ingvar Gudfinnsson, Johann Gunnar Gudmundsson and fourth official Magnus Thosisson.
  On the other hand, next Saturday's match against Denmark will kick-off at 20:00. The game will be controlled by Levan Paniashvili who will be assisted by assistant referees Mamuka Elikashvili and Zurab Jvaridze and fourth official George Vadachkoria.

Sun 5

• Premier League Qormi vs Floriana 0-0, Valletta vs Msida SJ 2-1
• First Division Knock-Out St. Patrick vs San Gwann 4-1, Vittoriosa S. vs Pietà H. 1-3
• Second Division Zebbug R. vs Melita 1-1, Sta. Venera L. vs Gozo 0-1
• Third Division Section A Mdina K. vs Gharghur 0-0
• Third Division Section A Zejtun C. vs Santa Lucia 2-1
• Gozo - First Division Qala SJ vs Kercem A. 1-1
• Gozo - Second Division Zebbug R. vs Munxar F. 1-1

Sat 4

• Premier League Sliema W. vs Tarxien R. 4-2, Marsaxlokk vs Hibernians 2-3
• First Division Knock-Out Senglea A. vs Mosta 1-1, Dingli S. vs Mqabba 2-1
• Second Division Birzebbuga SP vs Balzan Y. 0-1, St. Andrews vs Naxxar L. 1-1
• Senglea Athletic has just appointed a new board which will be in charge for the renovation, improvement and maintenance of Corradino Ground.
  The committee is made up of the Chairperson, Mr. Stephen Spiteri, Mr. David Aquilina as secretary and Mr. Mario Fenech as a representative for supporters.
  During the first meeting, Mr. Spiteri said that Senglea Athletics have been training in this ground for over twenty years. This 11-a-side ground hosts the senior team and youths together with the Senglea nursery's Under-15 and Under-17 players.
  Spiteri stated that this ground is made up of gravel and is in a state of abandon and is hazardous since the pitch is the cause of many injuries. Even though Senglea Nursery is doing its best to maintain this ground in a good state, unfortunately vandals manage to enter the ground and cause damages to the ground and dressing room. Syringes used by drug-abusers were also found.
  He went on to mention the expenses incurred by the nursery due to the fact that many balls get lost behind the goal posts and are impossible to reach due to the danger involved in doing it. For these reasons, Senglea Athletic has to rent pitches with artificial turf for training sessions.
  The board said that Senglea Athletics wishes to modernize this ground, so that Senglea Athletics’ players, youths and Senglea Nursery players have an adequate training ground.
  The Chairperson of this project, Stephen Spiteri, said that his objective is to install artificial turf in this ground. Spiteri said, that before entailing in such expenses for this project, the authorities have to pass on the ground to the club, as it was the case with other clubs.
  He said that experience has proven that whenever grounds were passed on to sport entities, these properties were maintained in a good condition. Spiteri said that in the coming days, this committee will be meeting Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Dolores Cristina to discuss the project.
  David Aquilina, secretary of this committee and ex-player of Senglea Athletics, stressed the fact that this ground has been in need for renovation for a very long time. He stated that throughout his career, he had various encounters with players who suffered various injures due to the bad state of the ground.
  Mario Fenech recalled that this ground has been in use from the English period and this pitch was also used for baseball. He reminded that this ground used to host ISA League matches as well in past.
  Stephen Spiteri, concluded by saying that he is convinced that a solution will be found and this project will take flight for the benefit of Senglea players and whoever wants to benefit from this ground.

Fri 3

• Premier League Hamrun S. vs Birkirkara 0-1
• Gozo - First Division Nadur Y. vs Ghajnsielem 0-1
• Gozo - Second Division Xewkija T. vs Gharb R. 1-1
• Valletta F.C. Committee would like to advise the general public that on Saturday 4th October as part of the Notte Bianca programme the club's premises will be open as it is going to hold an Exhibition of trophies and other acquirements of the past years.
• Edwin Camilleri was confirmed as the new coach of the Malta Under-21 side. Camilleri replaces Mark Miller whose contract was due to come to an end in November and has now joined Hibernians.
  The former Hibernians and Malta national team defender has been coaching the Under-19 side over the past couple of years.
  Camilleri will be assisted by Charles Scerri who was the Under-15 coach.
  Silvio Vella, who was the assistant coach of the Under-21 side, has now been appointed as coach of the Under-19 side. He will be assisted by Raymond Schembri.
  Grassroots Manager Mark Falzon is now in charge of the Under-15 side.
• Gozo will be represented by one team in the U*BET FA Trophy as from season 2009/2010 after new regulations for the competition were approved on Thursday by the Council of the Malta Football Association.
  The new rules stipulate that if Gozo FC - or any other team representing Gozo in MFA competitions - are not playing in the Premier League or First Division, the champions of the GFA First Division will earn the right to take part in the FA Trophy. If Gozo FC are playing in the Premier League or First Division, then Gozo FC will take part in the FA Trophy.
  If the Gozitan champions are taking part in the competition, a preliminary round would be necessary so as to reduce to sixteen the number of teams in the first round of the competition. Only First Division clubs and/or clubs from the Gozo FA may be involved in the preliminary round.
  In case of the Gozitan champions, they must submit a list of players fifteen days before playing their first game and they can use only those players throughout the whole competition.

Thu 2

• UEFA confirmed the dates for the preliminary round and first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League and the first and second qualifying rounds of the UEFA Europa League 2009/2010.
  Malta is ranked 50th in the UEFA access list for 2009 and will be represented by four clubs.
  The champions will be playing in the Preliminary Round together with the champions of the Faroe Islands, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Andorra and San Marino.
  The first leg of the UEFA Champions League preliminary round will be played on June 30/July 1 with the second leg being played a week later - July 7/8. The first qualifying round will be played on July 14/15 and July 21/22.
  Meanwhile the teams placing second and third in the BOV Premier League and the winners of the U*BET FA Trophy will be taking part in the UEFA Europa League.
  The FA Trophy winners enter the Second Qualifying Round while the Premier League runners-up and third place will play in the First Qualifying Round.
  The first qualifying round will be played on July 2 and 9 while the second qualifying round is scheduled for July 16 and 23.
  In case, the FA Trophy winners have already won the Premier League and therefore qualify for the UEFA Champions League, the losing finalists of the FA Trophy will take part in the UEFA Europa League.
  The fact that European competitions will start earlier than usual will affect the seeding of the turf at the National Stadium since this process usually took place in the beginning of June. Competitions for this season were due to come to an end on May 30 with the final of the FA Trophy. Therefore the fixtures for the final stage of the Premier League and the FA Trophy may have to be changed in order to accommodate the seeding process.

Wed 1

• Hibernians assistant coach Edmond Lufi was suspended for one match by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner after being sent off during the game against Sliema Wanderers last Sunday.
  In the First Division Knock-Out, Joseph Caruana (Rabat) and Larry Lagana (Vittoriosa) was banned for one match.
  Keith Bonello and Matthew Cocks (Gzira) and Jonathan Debono (Siggiewi) were suspended for one match in Division 3 while Alfio Cutajar (Kirkop) was banned for one game in the Youth League. Jason Good (Luqa) was banned for two matches.
• The Malta Football Association will be organising a course for Trainee Referees commencing on Monday 13th October 2008.
  Applications from males and females aged between 16 and 35 will be received by the Head of Refereeing, Malta Football Association, Millennium Stand, Level 2, National Stadium, Ta’ Qali ATD 4000 by email to tom.restall@mfa.com.mt by not later than Wednesday 8th October 2008.