November 2008
Sun 30
- Premier League Qormi vs Sliema W. 1-2, Msida SJ vs Hibernians 0-2
- First Division Vittoriosa S. vs St. Patrick 1-1, St. George's vs Dingli S. 2-1
- Second Division St. Andrews vs Melita 1-1, Marsa vs Mgarr U. 0-3, Gozo vs Balzan Y. 0-1
- Third Division Section A Mdina K. vs Ghaxaq 0-1
- Third Division Section B Santa Lucia vs Siggiewi 3-1
- Gozo - Second Division Gharb R. vs Oratory Y. 2-1
Sat 29
- Premier League Floriana vs Tarxien R. 3-1, Valletta vs Hamrun S. 4-0
- First Division San Gwann vs Mosta 0-2, Senglea A. vs Pietà H. 1-1
- Second Division Lija A. vs Zebbug R. 0-2, Mellieha vs Sta. Venera L.
- The Marsaxlokk Youth Nursery Under-11 side earlier this month had the opportunity to visit Turin following an agreement with the Juventus Soccer School.
The Marsaxlokk contingent, led by nursery president Frank Jenkins, secretary Brian Pantalleresco and Juventus Soccer School coach Charles Borg, also included a number of parents of the young players. On their arrival in Turin, the Marsaxlokk squad was welcomed by Juventus Soccer School assistant director Paolo Calefati.
On Saturday 1st November, the day Juventus celebrated their 111th anniversary from the foundation of the club, the Marsaxlokk Youth Nursery celebrated an important milestone as they signed a co-operation agreement with the Juventus Soccer School. An agreement thanks to which players from the Marsaxlokk nursery will be able to attend for training camps and play friendly games at the Juventus Soccer School in Grugliasco, Turin.
The Under-11 side were the first team to avail themselves of this opportunity. The young Marsaxlokk players had the opportunity to play two games over the weekend, each made up of three half-hour sessions, under the watchful eye of coaches from the Juventus Soccer School. In the first game, the young Juventus players were clearly superior, claiming a 6-1 win with Gianluca Darmanin scoring the only goal for Marsaxlokk. However in the second game, the young Marsaxlokk players showed greater determination and with one minute to go, the score was still 2-2. All players had a great performance, especially goalkeeper Kurt Jenkins, Darren Darmanin, Izakiel Maniscalco and Marlon Grech. Grech scored the two goals for Marsaxlokk, leaving a good impression with the Juventus Soccer School coaches.
It was a fantastic experience for the young Marsaxlokk players and also for their parents who witnessed their children enjoying themselves in a sporting atmosphere. After these games, Marsaxlokk Youth Nursery president Frank Jenkins presented a commemorative plaque to Juventus Soccer School director Alessandro Ramello. On the other hand, assistant director Paolo Calefati presented tokens to the Marsaxlokk players. The Marsaxlokk contingent was then invited to watch the Serie A game between Juventus and Roma. Ironically on their way to Turin, the Marsaxlokk players had already got the opportunity to meet the Roma players who were travelling on the same flight from Rome to Turin.
On Sunday, the programme included a sight-seeing tour in Turin.
This twinning agreement was made possible thanks to the hard work of the Marsaxlokk Youth Nursery officials, especially president Frank Jenkins and secretary Brian Pantalleresco.
Those wishing to join the Marsaxlokk Youth Nursery should contact Frank Jenkins on 79016699 or Brian Pantalleresco on 79427270.
Fri 28
- Third Division Section A Xghajra T. vs Gudja U. 0-2
- Third Division Section B Pembroke A. vs Gzira U. 1-2
Thu 27
- Gozo - First Division Ghajnsielem vs Kercem A. 1-1
- Gozo - Second Division Munxar F. vs Xewkija T. 3-1
- The Malta futsal national team lost 9-0 to France in the second of two friendly matches in Saint-Laurent de La Salanque on Wednesday. This game formed part of the team's preparation ahead of the forthcoming Futsal European Championship qualifying round.
Mustapha Otmani notched a hat-trick, Alexandre Texeira and Stéphane Basson scored two each with the other goals being scored by Mounir Khrouf and Abdelkrime Ait Kahma.
In a first friendly match on Tuesday, France won 10-0.
In February, Malta will host Greece, Georgia and Albania at Corradino in the UEFA Futsal European Championship qualifying round mini-tournament.
- The Publications Department of the Malta Football Association has published its official Year Book for season 2008/2009. This is a popular and informative annual publication that has gained in prestige and has now become a comprehensive and official guide to Maltese Football.
The current edition again carries a list of domestic competition winners of all Divisions throughout the years including the Youth, Women and Futsal Leagues. In addition there is a very comprehensive international section that includes results of matches played by the National 'A', Under-21 teams and going down to all youth teams' commitments.
The Annual, compiled and edited by Albert Fenech, originally incorporated official fixtures of the Association’s main competitions for the current season, but has over the years been expanded to serve as a guide to Maltese football throughout the over 100 years history of the Malta FA.
Other information includes honours won by teams in various competitions since their inception, results of Maltese teams playing in all the European matches over the years, scorers' lists in domestic competitions, individual honours and details of most capped players and national team scorers' lists.
The publication is a handy reference for all football followers. With well over 250 pages, the Yearbook is sold at €5 per copy at various stationers.
Wed 26
- The MFA Technical Centre will be organising another instructional meeting on Monday 1st December 2008 for holders of UEFA ‘A’, UEFA ‘B’, ‘A’ and ‘B’ Licence coaches.
This meeting, which is planned to be a theoretical session, will start at 17.30 hrs at the Centenary Hall.
- A goal scored one minute from normal time by Liechtenstein captain Lucas Eberle through a long-range looping ball denied Malta of a victory over Liechtenstein and the platonic satisfaction of avoiding the bottom place in Group 4, a position they now have to share with their opponents in the final standings of the UEFA Championship 2008-2009.
Malta had gone ahead just after the hour mark through main striker Terence Vella who latched on to a superb service from Miguel Ciantar before lobbing cutely past the Liechtenstein extreme defender Mario Tichy.
The visitors' goalkeeper had earlier foiled the industrious Ciantar when turning the midfielder's grounder to corner. Tichy had been the busier of the two custodians, mainly through some routine interventions.
Silvio Vella's side were a livelier lot in the opening period, but despite a welter of possession they lacked the necessary thrust and could not turn their territorial supremacy into tangible results. However, they went near to breaking the deadlock on a couple of occasions, once Ciantar going close after bypassing Liechtenstein's two central defenders.
In the second half the visitors grew in confidence but only once did they seriously threaten Daniel Balzan. That was when Malta's goalkeeper flung to his right to turn a low Simon Pirker shot to corner.
Thereafter Malta regained some earlier composure, only for their good work to be undone by that last-gasp goal.
Nevertheless, the Maltese lads had played boldly and their generous display was acknowledged by those present at the Centenary Stadium, especially an enthusiastic group of schoolchildren whose vociferous support was constant.
MALTA: Daniel Balzan, Timothy Fleri-Soler, Owen Bugeja, Jonathan Xerri, Kane Farrugia, Tristan Caruana (67' Jean Paul Farrugia), Rowen Muscat, Dylan Grima, Terence Vella, Miguel Ciantar (83' David Ryan Zammit), Elkien Cauchi
Malta lost their first match 2-0 on Friday against the Republic of Ireland and 3-0 against France on Sunday,
In another match played at the Hibernians Ground, France beat the Republic of Ireland 2-0 to top the table and proceed with their Irish opponents to the Elite stage of the competition to be played in April/May 2009.
- Qormi midfielder Chucks Nwoko was handed a two-match ban while another seven Premier League players were suspended by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner following last weekend's matches from the BOV Premier League.
Nwoko, who was sent off in the game against Hamrun Spartans, was banned for two matches and is therefore ruled out of the games against Sliema next Sunday and against Marsaxlokk on Sunday 7. Defender Rennie Forace was banned for one match and will therefore miss the game against Sliema.
Floriana duo Christian Caruana and Sunday Eboh were suspended for one game and will miss the game against Tarxien on Saturday. Brian Said and Stephen Wellman were handed a one-match ban and are ruled out of the game Qormi vs Marsaxlokk.
Msida duo Pedro Dos Santos Calcado and Tyrone Farrugia were also suspended for one game and will be missing the game Msida St. Joseph vs Hibernians on Sunday.
Meanwhile in Division 2, Justin Camilleri and Michael Ciappara, both of Birzebbuga, were banned for one match while Anthony Sammut (Gharghur) and Mark Said (Luqa) were suspended for one match in Division 3.
In the Youth League, Brendan Zammit and Michael Ellul (both Mellieha) and Nicky Vella Petroni (St. Andrews) were banned for one game.
Tue 25
- The Malta futsal national team lost 10-0 to France in the first of two friendly matches in Saint-Laurent de La Salanque on Tuesday. This game formed part of the team's preparation ahead of the forthcoming Futsal European Championship qualifying round.
This was the largest win ever for France.
Captain Stéphane Basson, Mustapha Otmani, Pierre Scurbecq, Alexandre Texeira and Admir Batlak gave the hosts a 5-0 lead by the end of the first half.
Alexandre Texeira scored another two goals to complete a hat-trick and Mounir Khrouf added another two before Admir Batlak scored the final goal.
Another friendly match is in programme on Wednesday.
In February, Malta will host Greece, Georgia and Albania at Corradino in the UEFA Futsal European Championship qualifying round mini-tournament.
Mon 24
- Third Division Section A Fgura U. vs Kalkara 1-3
- Third Division Section B Zejtun C. vs Zurrieq 0-2
- Herbal Life, in collaboration with the Birkirkara FC Youth Nursery, will convene an Information Talk for Parents next Sunday, 30th November 2008, at 9.30am at the St. Theresa Junior Lyceum Foyer (in front of Infetti training Grounds). The purpose of this meeting is to solicit parents input about establishing nutrition for both parents and children.
During this meeting, the parents will have an opportunity to meet and address the Nutritionist from Herbal Life, and share concerns regarding the scope, content, and impact of the nutrition.
Meanwhile a Football Festival is going to be held at St. Aloysius’ College Ground next Monday, 8th December 2008. This activity will be organized together with St. Venera Youth Nursery and will be sponsored by Dr Beppe Fenech Adami. All children attending our football nursery can participate by giving their names to their respective coaches at the earliest. All participants will be given a memento during presentation.
It is important to note, that this activity does not include any political concern at all at any time; therefore, we urge everyone to attend and enjoy the day with us.
Another activity organised by the Birkirkara FC Youth Nursery and Razzett tal-Hbiberija will be held on Sunday 20th December from 09.30am – 11.30am at the Razzett tal-Hbiberija.
A delicious breakfast menu of sausages, eggs, baked beans, muffins, orange juice or a glass of milk will be served. Santa’s Elves will greet the children upon arrival, and Santa Claus will be posing with children for photos.
Activities include exciting crafts for all the children and face painting.
All children and parents are to attend for this wonderful event while helping charity. All proceeds go to Razzett tal-Hbiberija. Booking deadline by the 10th December 2008. Limited seating.
- The committes of Mqabba F.C. and Mqabba F.C. Youth Nursery will inaugurate the modernised facilties at the club's training complex in Triq il-Madonna tal-Gilju, Mqabba on Sunday 30th November 2008 from 10.30 am onwards.
The Training Complex has been modernised and upgraded to include a new 9-a-side synthetic turf pitch that can be utilised as three five-a-side separate pitches and new dressing rooms for use by the Mqabba F.C. Youth Nursery in addition to the adjacent five-a-side synthetic pitch and already existing dressing rooms.
For further information regarding the inauguration event kindly contact Gilbert Camilleri on 99827767. For ground bookings please phone on 79618191.
Sun 23
- UEFA Under-19 Championship Ireland vs Liechtenstein 1-0, Malta vs France 0-3
France defeated Malta 3-0 in the second match from Group 4 of the UEFA Under-19 European Championship 2008/09 qualifying round at the Centenary Stadium on Sunday.
Yann M'Villa gave France an early lead and Yacine Brahimi doubled the score just before the break. Magaye Gueye scored the third goal on the hour.
MALTA: Daniel Balzan, Timothy Fleri Soler, Owen Bugeja, Jonathan Xerri, Kane Paul Farrugia, Tristan Caruana (Chris Mackay), Rowen Muscat, Dylan Grima, Terrence Vella, Miguel Ciantar (Jean Paul Farrugia), Ryan Zammit (Elkien Cauchi).
In another match on Sunday, Ireland defeated Liechtenstein 1-0 thanks to a goal by Connor Clifford.
The tournament comes to an end on Wednesday with two matches at 11:00 - Liechtenstein vs Malta at the Centenary Stadium and France vs Ireland at the Hibernians Ground.
- Premier League Msida SJ vs Marsaxlokk 1-1, Hamrun S. vs Qormi 2-2
- First Division Dingli S. vs St. Patrick, Rabat A. vs St. George's 1-2
- Third Division Section A Luqa SA vs Gharghur 2-1
- Third Division Section B Mtarfa vs Attard 1-2
- Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs Victoria H. 2-0, Nadur Y. vs Qala SJ 1-1
- As it is planned that during next year the Sliema Wanderers Youth Nursery moves back to new premises and training ground at Tigne, the Nursery administration wishes not only to have excellent facilities but also well prepared and dedicated coaches who are motivated enough to give the best of football education to the children and youth that attend the Sliema nursery.
Towards achieving this aim, the Sliema Nursery organized a seminar for its staff coaches were the latest developments in youth coaching and other topics that are important for whoever is in constant contact with children and youths were discussed. Topics such as long-term youth athlete development, awareness of substance and alcohol abuse and proper athlete nutrition were covered by guest speakers Mark Falzon the head of youth development at the MFA, Kevin Aisthorpe - a personal fitness specialist and Dona Calleja from Sedqa. A practical coaching session by Sliema coach Stephen Azzopardi was also included in the programme, while head coach Michael Farrugia and assistant head coach Martin Sacco reviewed the Nursery’s own internal recommendations to its own staff coaches.
Concluding the seminar, Martin Sacco coordinator of the event, reminded those present that they have the responsibility to keep alive the ideals of the founder of the nursery the late Guzi Fava who died seventeen years ego. While thanking the participants and guest speakers, he remarked that for the past twenty five years the nursery has produced some of the best footballers on the island and that he is confident that by keeping abreast of youth coaching developments, the nursery can keep offering the best to developing footballers.
Sat 22
- Premier League Valletta vs Floriana 2-1
- Second Division Mgarr U. vs Birzebbuga SP 2-3, Naxxar L. vs Marsa 0-0
- The Sliema Nursery to further improve the service it gives to developing footballers is organizing a seminar for its staff coaches on Sunday 23rd November 2008.
The program for the seminar will give to the coaches the latest developments in youth coaching and also other topics that are important for whoever is in constant contact with children and youths.
- More details were given regarding the MFA project for the improvement and development of facilities of member clubs and member associations.
Funds allocated for this project amount to €4 million. The association obtained €2 million from a UEFA programme and another €2 million thanks to a loan from Bank of Valletta.
The funds from UEFA actually amount to €2.5 million but €0.5 million will go to a social project which the association has identified in a national grassroots' training centre. This centre, which will be built on part of the MFA Training Grounds in Ta' Qali, will consist of an artificial turf pitch with floodlights. Underneath the terraces, dressing rooms and lecture rooms for the Under-17, Under-19 and women's national teams will be built.
UEFA is expected to approve the applications for these programmes and FIFA has already approved an application for another grant.
Applications from around 40 different clubs and member associations vary between major work such as the laying of full-size artificial turf pitches and building of dressing rooms, installation of floodlights and providing other facilities.
The projects at Victor Tedesco Stadium, the St. Patrick Ground in Zabbar and the Melita Ground have been completed and the installation of artificial turf pitches in Pembroke and Marsaxlokk, together with the Sannat Ground, will be completed in the coming weeks.
At the Hibernians Ground, civil works were being carried out in view of the installation of the floodlights and the association has recently awarded the tenders to the two companies. The project should be ready in a couple of months' time.
Speaking during a meeting of the Council of the Malta Football Association, MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud said the association was being very meticulous in its plans to allocate funds in an equitable way. At the same time it is being cautious that the projects planned by various clubs could be realised.
Clubs are receiving the sum of €33 per square metre of playing area up to a total of €160,000 for the installation of artificial turf pitches. The MFA has just issued a tender for the installation of a number of pitches.
When this project will be completed, a total of €10 and €12 million would have been spent in three years on the association and clubs' infrastructure.
The MFA President said that the MFA is satisfied that several Clubs have taken the initiative to improve their sports facilities and will encourage them to continue doing so. At the same time, the MFA has to be serious in its evaluation of the specific needs of clubs and will use its objective criteria in assessing these needs.
Fri 21
- UEFA Under-19 Championship Ireland vs Malta 2-0, France vs Liechtenstein 4-0
The Republic of Ireland scored twice in the final ten minutes to beat the Malta Under-19 2-0 in the first match from Group 4 of the UEFA Under-19 European Championship 2008/09 qualifying round which kicked-off on Friday at the Centenary Stadium.
Niall McArdel put the Irish ahead on the 80th minute and seven minutes later, Patrick Madden doubled the score.
MALTA: Daniel Balzan, Timothy Fleri Soler, Owen Bugeja, Jonathan Xerri, Kane Paul Farrugia, Tristan Caruana, Rowen Muscat, Dylan Grima, Terrence Vella (Jean Paul Farrugia), Miguel Ciantar (Leighton Grech), Elkien Cauchi.
- The Malta Football Association announced new dates for the three BOV Premier League fixtures which were postponed over the past week.
The two matches which were scheduled to be played last weekend at the Hibernians Ground - Hibernians vs Tarxien Rainbows and Qormi vs Valletta will now be played at the Centenary Stadium on Wednesday 10 and Thursday 11 December respectively. Both matches will kick-off at 18:30.
On the other hand, the match Birkirkara vs Hibernians, which was due to be played this Saturday but which was postponed as Hibs have several players in the Under-19 national team currently taking part in the UEFA Under-19 mini-tournament, will now be played at the Centenary Stadium on Wednesday 3 December, also at 18:30.
- Malta national futsal coach Michael Striz will extend his stay for six months as his contract was due to expire in December.
This means that Striz will be leading the team during the Futsal European Championship preliminary round mini-tournament which will be played in February. Malta will meet Greece, Georgia and Albania.
In view of this mini-tournament, Malta will be playing friendly matches against France.
Thu 20
- The Malta Under-19 side will be facing the Republic of Ireland as Group 4 of the UEFA Under-19 European Championship 2008/09 qualifying round kicks-off on Friday at the Centenary Stadium, kick-off at 11:00.
Taking part in the tournament, besides Malta and Ireland are France and Liechtenstein who face each other in the second game on Friday, kick-off at 13:15.
France and Ireland will obviously start as favourites to secure the top two places in the group but Silvio Vella's side will be aiming at obtaining good results from the three games as a third place in the group could still put the team in the next stage of the competition. In fact, besides the winners and runners-up of the thirteen groups, the best two third-placed teams in the group will also make it to the Elite Round.
In the Elite Round, teams will be drawn into four groups of seven teams each, with the top team in each group, plus the host nation, proceeding to the finals of the UEFA Championships.
On Sunday, Malta plays the second game against France, kick-off at 17:15. On the same day, Ireland takes on Liechtenstein at 15:00. The tournament comes to an end on Wednesday with two matches at 11:00 Liechtenstein vs Malta and France vs Ireland.
All matches will be played at the Centenary Stadium, except for France vs Ireland which will be played at the Hibernians Ground. Entrance for all matches is free.
The players selected by coach Silvio Vella and his assistant Raymond Schembri is made up of:
goalkeepers Daniel Balzan (Hibernians), Matthew Falzon (Hearts - SCO);
defenders Joseph Aquilina (Crawley Town – ENG), Owen Bugeja (Floriana), Cleaven Cassar (Pieta Hotspurs), Kane Paul Farrugia (Sliema Wanderers), Timothy Fleri Soler (Hibernians), Christopher Mc Kay (Pieta Hotspurs), Jonathan Scerri (Hibernians);
midfielders Nathan Busuttil (Pieta Hotspurs), Tristan Caruana (Hibernians), Elkien Cauchi (Hibernians), Miguel Ciantar (Sliema Wanderers), Leighton Grech (Hibernians), Dylan Grima (Valletta), Rowan Muscat (Birkirkara), Randall Refalo (Pieta Hotspurs), Mark Scerri (Sliema Wanderers), Ryan Zammit (San Gwann);
forwards Terence Vella (Pieta Hotspurs), Jean Paul Farrugia (Hibernians).
- Msida St. Joseph FC announced that they have finalized an agreement with Hard Rock Café to become the club's main sponsor.
Speaking during a press conference which was held at Hard Rock Café in Baystreet on Thursday, club president Mr Robert Farrugia said that the club was proud to be associated with such a company.
Mr. Adrian Grech Cumbo added that this is a step forward for the club to reach its ambitions. He added that the club are grateful to the work done by the MFA and has personally thanked president Dr. Joseph Mifsud and vice-president Dr. Peter Fenech for their help regarding the collection of funds that the club is due from Portuguese side Uniao Leiria in relation to the transfer of Ousseni Zongo in the beginning of last season.
Mr. Robert Farrugia concluded by thanking Msida SJ sponsors who are: Hard Rock Café, Eurosport, General Softdrinks, Active Zone and JF Security.
Wed 19
- Four Premier League players were handed a one-match ban following the weekend's matches from the BOV Premier League. The four players are Shawn Bajada (Birkirkara), Carlo Mamo and William Camenzuli (Marsaxlokk) and Roderick Briffa (Sliema).
Shawn Bajada is ruled out of the Stripes' next game which could be against Tarxien Rainbows on December 7 unless the game against Hibernians is re-scheduled to an earlier date.
Mamo and Camenzuli will be missing the next game against Msida on Sunday while Briffa is out of the game against Qormi on Sunday 30.
Birkirkara coach John Buttigieg was suspended for two matches.
In Division 1, Pierre Grima (Mqabba), Josef Tonna (Rabat) and Matthew Fleri Soler (St. Patrick) were banned for one match while Chris Bernard Farrugia (Birzebbuga) and William Borg (Mellieha) were suspended for one game in Division 2. Mellieha official Jason Gauci was suspended for two matches.
In the Youth League, Dean Costa (Zejtun) were banned for two matches while Juan Galdes (Gudja) and Wayne Pantalleresco (Marsaxlokk) were suspended for one game.
Tue 18
- Third Division Section A Ghaxaq vs Qrendi 0-0
- Gozo - First Division Kercem A. vs SK Victoria W. 0-1
- Malta takes on Iceland in a friendly match on Wednesday at the Hibs Ground, kick-off at 14:30, in an important test ahead of next year's 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The national team is coming from a series of six successive defeats - two friendly matches away from home against Austria and Estonia and four World Cup qualifiers against Portugal, Albania, Denmark and Hungary. Defeats which led national coach Dusan Fitzel to consider his future at the helm of the team over the past weeks before opting to stay.
The friendly against Iceland will definitely give Fitzel the opportunity to test changes that he could make in the coming games. No less than five new players are now part of the squad - Andrei Agius, Daniel Bogdanovic, Alex Muscat, Clayton Failla and Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza. These players were in fact included in the 18-man squad named by Fitzel and his assistant Michael Striz.
Missing from the squad for this game are Sheffield United goalkeeper Justin Haber, Leixoes midfielder Udo Nwoko, Luke Dimech, Gilbert Agius, Jamie Pace and Cleavon Frendo of Valletta, Aaron Xuereb, Andrew Cohen and Terence Scerri of Hibernians, Shaun Bajada of Birkirkara, Kevin Sammut of Marsaxlokk and goalkeeper Henry Bonello of Sliema.
Ironically, Cleavon Frendo scored the only goal in a 1-0 win over Iceland in a match from the Malta International Tournament last February.
Coventry striker Michael Mifsud is part of the squad but will undergo a fitness test before a decision is taken whether he will play or not after skipping the last game for his club due to an injury.
Like Fitzel, Iceland coach Olafur Johannesson left some players out of the squad and included a new player - Fredrikstad striker Gardar Johannson. Missing from the squad are Eidur Gudjohnsen, Kristjan Sigurdsson, Stefan Gislason and Brynjar Gunnarsson.
Iceland are currently third in Group 9 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying round with four points from four matches. Following a 2-2 draw with Norway away from home, they lost 1-2 to Scotland in Reykjavik and 2-0 to the Netherlands in Rotterdam but then defeated Macedonia 1-0 at home.
This will be the fourteenth game between the two countries. Malta won three matches, Iceland nine with the other clash ending in a draw.
This game will only be the third national team game to be played outside Ta' Qali in over twenty-five years. Malta defeated Canada 2-1 at the Hibs Ground in 2001 and two years ago, Malta lost 1-4 to Lithuania in another friendly match at the same venue.
Malta squad:
goalkeepers Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Mario Muscat (Hibs);
defenders Andrei Agius (Igea Virtus - ITA), Ian Azzopardi (Sliema), Roderick Briffa (Sliema), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Alex Muscat (Sliema), Brian Said (Marsaxlokk), Kenneth Scicluna (Valletta);
midfielders Daniel Bogdanovic (Lokomotiv Sofia - BUL), Clayton Failla (Hibs), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Ivan Woods (Sliema);
forwards Etienne Barbara (SC Verl - GER), Michael Mifsud (Coventry - ENG), Jean-Pierre Mifsud Triganza (Birkirkara), Andre Schembri (Carl Zeiss Jena - GER).
Iceland squad:
goalkeepers Arni Gautur Arason (Odd Grenland), Gunnleifur Gunnleifsson (HK);
defenders Hermann Hreidarsson (Portsmouth), Indridi Sigurdsson (FC Lyn Oslo), Gretar Rafn Steinsson (Bolton Wanderers), Bjarni Olafur Eiriksson (Valur), Solvi Geir Ottesen Jonsson (Sonderjysk), Hallgrimur Jonasson (Keflavik)
midfielders Emil Hallfredsson (Reggina Calcio), Birkir Mar Saevarsson (SK Brann), Aron Einar Gunnarsson (Coventry City FC), Palmi Rafn Palmason (Stabaek IF), Helgi Valur Danielsson (IF Elfsborg), Arnor Smarason (SC Herenveen), Gudmundur Steinarsson (Keflavík);
forwards Heidar Helguson (Bolton Wanderers), Veigar Pall Gunnarsson (Stabaek IF), Gardar Johannsson (Fredrikstad FK).
The match will be played at the Hibernians Ground, kick-off at 14:30. Tickets will be available at the door for €5.
- Following a successful meeting for members which was held in September, Sliema Wanderers will be organising another meeting for members and for parents of children attending the Sliema Wanderers Youth Nursery. The meeting will be held on Thursday 20th November at the Diplomat Hotel, Sliema at 20:30.
President Steve Abela and vice-president Nikki Dimech will be speaking about the latest developents at the Tigne Sports Complex, the club premises and the nursery.
Also present for the meeting will be Sliema Wanderers Youth Nursery vice-chairman Mark Pace and other members of the committee.
Mon 17
- Third Division Section B Kirkop U. vs Santa Lucia 1-1
- Malta national coach Dusan Fitzel named an 18-man squad for next Wednesday's international friendly match against Iceland. Foreign-based players Andrei Agius and Daniel Bogdanovic are part of the squad but Justin Haber and Udo Nwoko will not travel for the game.
Igea Virtus defender Andrei Agius and Lokomotiv Sofia midfielder/striker Daniel Bogdanovic were in fact two of five 'new' faces in the national team which resumed training a couple of weeks ago. The other three players were Sliema Wanderers defender Alex Muscat, Hibernians midfielder Clayton Failla and Birkirkara striker Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza, who were all included in the squad for Wednesday's game.
Bogdanovic will be making his return to the national team after an absence of fifteen months after making his debut in February 2002. Agius and Muscat made their first appearances during the Malta International Tournament in 2006 and 2004 respectively. On the other hand, Clayton Failla and Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza have never played for the national team.
Besides Sheffield United goalkeeper Justin Haber and Leixoes midfielder Udo Nwoko, other players who were dropped from the squad include Luke Dimech, Gilbert Agius, Jamie Pace and Cleavon Frendo of Valletta, Aaron Xuereb, Andrew Cohen and Terence Scerri of Hibernians, Shaun Bajada of Birkirkara, Kevin Sammut of Marsaxlokk and goalkeeper Henry Bonello of Sliema.
Ironically, Cleavon Frendo scored the only goal in a 1-0 win over Iceland in a match from the Malta International Tournament last February.
The squad named by Fitzel and his assistant Michael Striz is made up of:
goalkeepers Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Mario Muscat (Hibs);
defenders Andrei Agius (Igea Virtus - ITA), Ian Azzopardi (Sliema), Roderick Briffa (Sliema), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Alex Muscat (Sliema), Brian Said (Marsaxlokk), Kenneth Scicluna (Valletta);
midfielders Daniel Bogdanovic (Lokomotiv Sofia - BUL), Clayton Failla (Hibs), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Ivan Woods (Sliema);
forwards Etienne Barbara (SC Verl - GER), Michael Mifsud (Coventry - ENG), Jean-Pierre Mifsud Triganza (Birkirkara), Andre Schembri (Carl Zeiss Jena - GER).
The match will be played at the Hibernians Ground, kick-off at 14:30. Tickets will be available at the door for €5.
- Another edition of the Valletta F.C. calendar will be on sale as from next Friday. The Valletta Supporters’ Club will be launching the calendar during an activity held at the Club's premises on Friday evening at 8.00pm.
The 2009 calendar will be showing individual pictures of all Valletta F.C. players dressed casually. In this year’s edition there is also a page containing pictures of previous Valletta squads together with a page of pre-season activities organised by the Valletta F.C. Supporters’ Club.
The entire calendar's artwork has been done by PhotoCity of South Street, Valletta. The calendar will be on sale for the price of €6.00 and will be on sale on Saturday from a specially set-up stand in Republic street and also during the Valletta-Floriana match on Saturday afternoon.
- Premier League side Qormi FC have just the club's new official website www.qormifc.net
This was a part of the committee's constant work to establish the club and at the same time be closer to the loyal supporters. The website will feature the latest news, match reports and other news from the club together with other interesting information.
Sun 16
- Premier League Hibernians vs Tarxien R. postponed, Sliema W. vs Msida SJ 2-1, Marsaxlokk vs Birkirkara 1-1
- Second Division Marsa vs St. Andrews 0-0, Melita vs Mellieha 4-1
- Third Division Section A Sirens vs Mdina K. 1-1
- Third Division Section B Siggiewi vs Pembroke A. 3-4
- The BOV Premier League match between Hibernians and Tarxien Rainbows scheduled for today at 14.00 hrs at the Hibernians Ground, Corradino, has been postponed, again due to the soggy state of the pitch.
Meanwhile, the BOV Premier League matches between Sliema Wanderers and Msida St Joseph and that between Marsaxlokk and Birkirkara, to be played at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, Hamrun, today, Sunday, are on.
The re-scheduled dates for the matches, Qormi - Valletta and Hibernians - Tarxien Rainbows, called off on Saturday and Sunday respectively, will be announced later.
Sat 15
- Premier League Qormi vs Valletta postponed
The BOV Premier League match between Qormi and Valletta scheduled for today Saturday at 14:00, has been postponed due to the condition of the pitch at the Hibernians Ground after the recent heavy rainfall.
The match will be moved to a date to be announced later.
- First Division St. Patrick vs Rabat A. 1-0, Mqabba vs Vittoriosa S. 1-1
- Second Division Birzebbuga SP vs Naxxar L. 2-1, Sta. Venera L. vs Lija A. 0-1
- Malta will be hosting Group 4 of the UEFA Under-19 European Championship 2008-2009 qualifying round between Friday 21st and Wednesday 26th November. Taking part in the tournament are France, Liechtenstein and the Republic of Ireland.
Matches will be played at the Centenary Stadium and Hibernians Ground.
Our national Under 19 team will face very stiff opposition in their bid to qualify by right if they finish in the top two positions in the group. The repechage system could see Malta qualify if they obtain one of the two best third places in the 13 groups.
There will be 28 qualifiers for the Elite Group, after which the teams will be drawn into four groups of seven teams each, with the top team in each group, plus the host nation, proceeding to the finals of the UEFA Championships
Malta will need the full support of the public, including the schoolchildren who will be able to watch the morning matches.
The squad picked by coach Silvio Vella and his assistant Raymond Schembri is:
Goalkeepers: Daniel Balzan (Hibernians), Matthew Falzon (Hearts - Scotland)
Defenders: Joseph Aquilina (Crawley Town – England), Owen Bugeja (Floriana), Cleaven Cassar (Pieta Hotspurs), Kane Paul Farrugia (Sliema Wanderers), Timothy Fleri Soler ( Hibernians), Christopher Mc Kay (Pieta Hotspurs), Jonathan Scerri (Hibernians)
Midfielders: Nathan Busuttil (Pieta Hotspurs), Tristan Caruana (Hibernians), Elkien Cauchi (Hibernians), Miguel Ciantar (Sliema Wanderers), Leighton Grech (Hibernians), Dylan Grima (Valletta), Rowan Muscat (Birkirkara), Randall Refalo (Pieta Hotspurs), Mark Scerri (Sliema Wanderers), Ryan Zammit (San Gwann)
Forwards: Terence Vella (Pieta Hotspurs), Jean Paul Farrugia (Hibernians)
The programme of matches at the Centenary Stadium is as follows:
Friday 21 11:00 Rep. of Ireland v Malta; 13:15 Liechtenstein v France
Sunday 23 15:00 Rep. of Ireland v Liechtenstein; 17:15 Malta v France
Wednesday 26 11:00 Liechtenstein v Malta.
France v Rep. of Ireland will be played on Wednesday 26 at 11:00 at the Hibs Ground.
Entrance for all matches is free.
Fri 14
- Third Division Section A Gharghur vs Xghajra T. 2-2, Gudja U. vs Fgura U. 1-0
- The BOV Premier League match Birkirkara vs Hibernians which was scheduled for Saturday November 22 has been postponed due to the number of Hibernians players who form part of the Malta Under-19 squad which will be playing in Group 4 of the UEFA Under-19 Championship qualifying round which will be held in Malta starting on Friday.
Therefore the only match which will be played on Saturday 22 will be the derby Valletta vs Floriana which will kick-off at 15:00.
A new date for Birkirkara vs Hibernians is yet to be announced.
- Fgura United will be holding an Extraordinary General Meeting on Tuesday 25th November at the club's premises in St. Thomas Street at 18:00.
The main item on the agenda is the election of the treasurer.
Nominations will be received by the club secretary until Thursday 20th November.
Wed 12
- Following the 3-0 defeat to Denmark in Copenhagen and the narrow 0-1 defeat to Hungary at Ta' Qali, Malta dropped another four places in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking for November and is now ranked 150th.
However among the other European countries, Malta climbed one place and is now 49th as Liechtenstein lost seventeen places and is now 50th. Just ahead of Malta is Montenegro (115, up 2), Kazakhstan (125, up 6), Luxembourg (127, down 4), Estonia (131, up 6), Azerbaijan (134, up 9). Lying behind Malta is Liechtenstein (152, down 17), Faroe Islands (186, up 12), Andorra (194, down 10) and San Marino (201, down 1).
The next game for Malta is against Iceland who are ranked 82nd, 38th in Europe.
- Iceland coach Olafur Johannesson named an 18-man squad for the friendly match against Malta at the Hibernians Ground on Wednesday Novemeber 19.
Missing from the squad are Eidur Gudjohnsen, Kristjan Sigurdsson, Stefan Gislason and Brynjar Gunnarsson. A new face in the squad is striker Gardar Johannson who plays for Fredrikstad.
Iceland are currently third in Group 9 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying round with four points from four matches. Following a 2-2 draw with Norway away from home, they lost 1-2 to Scotland in Reykjavik and 2-0 to the Netherlands in Rotterdam but then defeated Macedonia 1-0 at home.
The squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Arni Gautur Arason (Odd Grenland), Gunnleifur Gunnleifsson (HK);
defenders Hermann Hreidarsson (Portsmouth), Indridi Sigurdsson (FC Lyn Oslo), Gretar Rafn Steinsson (Bolton Wanderers), Bjarni Olafur Eiriksson (Valur), Solvi Geir Ottesen Jonsson (Sonderjysk), Hallgrimur Jonasson (Keflavik)
midfielders Emil Hallfredsson (Reggina Calcio), Birkir Mar Saevarsson (SK Brann), Aron Einar Gunnarsson (Coventry City FC), Palmi Rafn Palmason (Stabaek IF), Helgi Valur Danielsson (IF Elfsborg), Arnor Smarason (SC Herenveen), Gudmundur Steinarsson (Keflavík);
forwards Heidar Helguson (Bolton Wanderers), Veigar Pall Gunnarsson (Stabaek IF), Gardar Johannsson (Fredrikstad FK).
- Malta suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Armenia in the third and final match from the UEFA Women's Mini-Tournament which is being held in Skopje.
Malta took the lead thanks to a goal by Dorianne Theuma but Armenia levelled matters on the half hour and made it 2-1 early in the second half.
Malta therefore ended its commitments with one point following a 3-2 defeat to Macedonia, a 1-1 draw with Estonia and a 2-1 defeat to Armenia.
Armenia win the tournament with seven points, followed by hosts Macedonia on five, Estonia on two and Malta one. Armenia in fact dropped their only points in a draw with Macedonia who won the game against Malta and drew with Estonia in their other game.
- Qormi midfielder Keith Fenech was handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner after being sent off in the U*BET FA Trophy second round clash against Hamrun Spartans.
However since Qormi were eliminated from the competition, he will be serving the ban in the BOV Premier League match against Valletta in programme on Saturday.
St. Patrick kit-manager Charles Gauci was banned for two matches.
Daniel Cosaitis (Senglea) and Errol Cachia (Zebbug) were both suspended for one match.
Tue 11
- Hibernians striker Clayton Failla was named BOV Player of the Month for October 2008. This is the second time the player landed this award this football season. Failla was instrumental in Hibernians' victory over Qormi, during which he scored twice for his team.
This performance earned the Hibernians and Malta Under 21 player the top accolade for October by journalists. The player has also been recently promoted to the A squad by national team coach Dusan Fitzel in recognition of his talents.
Clayton Failla continues to attract the attention of journalists for his qualities, particularly his agility and perky runs on the left flank. Moreover, the player displays excellent team spirit qualities that will prove to be an important asset for his team in the future.
Emily Grech, Manager Paola Branch at Bank of Valletta presented the BOV Player of the Month trophy to the player. Failla took the opportunity to congratulate his fellow team players who helped him achieve this award twice in the last four months and showed his appreciation to Bank of Valletta for its support in promoting the local game. The player chose the Children's Cancer Support Group as the beneficiary of the cash donation given by the Bank in association with this award.
- Tarxien Rainbows will be holding a rally for supporters in view of the long-awaited derby against Hibernians in programme on Sunday.
The rally will be held at the club's premises on Thursday at 20:00.
Tarxien president Tony Cassar will be addressing the rally in the presence of the coach and players.
Tarxien supporters are encouraged to attend.
- Hibs Ultras kick-off their derby campaign next Friday when they meet at Hibs Ground Kordin for the team's training session.
The Ultras will be cheering the players throughout the session and show them the Ultras are behind them. The Ultras will meet at 18:00.
After the training session, Hibs Ultras and the Hibernians Supporters Club will be organizing a get together for all the Hibs fans.
Finger food and drinks at special prices will be available while 2 DJs will be rocking the place on the night.
Mon 10
- Third Division Section A Kalkara vs Ghaxaq 1-1
- Third Division Section B Gzira U. vs Zejtun C. 1-0
- Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery will be holding the eleventh Christmas Football Festival at the Victor Tedesco Stadium on on Monday 8 and Saturday 13 December 2008. The tournament is sanctioned by the MFA Amateur, Youths and Grassroots Committee and the Hamrun Spartans Sports Complex Management Board.
The tourament is open for four categories: Class A for children born after January 1 2001, Class B for children born after January 1 1999, Class C for children born after January 1 1997 and Class D for girls born after January 1 1996.
Participation fee is €75 for class A, B and D and €85 for class C. These fees include referees' expenses.
Games from Class A and Class D will be played on a five-a-side basis with a maximum of ten registered players for each team. Games from Class B will be played on a seven-a-side basis with a maximum of twelve registered players for each team while matches from Class C will be played on a nine-a-side basis with a maximum of fourteen players per team.
All games will be controlled by MFA referees. Each player will be presented with a memento.
Interested nurseries should contact the organisers by November 22 on 21251483, 99478302, 79496363, mariodebattista@onvol.net or hsyn@melita.net.mt
Sun 9
- FA Trophy St. Patrick vs Floriana 0-1, Qormi vs Hamrun S. 1-2
- First Division St. George's vs Senglea A. 2-0, Pietà H. vs San Gwann 3-3
- Second Division Zebbug R. vs Balzan Y. 0-2, Mgarr U. vs Gozo 0-3
- After suffering a narrow 3-2 defeat to hosts Macedonia in the first game, Malta was held in a 1-1 draw by Estonia in the second match from the UEFA Women's Mini-Tournament which is being held in Skopje.
Pierre Brincat's side went one goal down due to an own goal after just a couple of minutes. However Dorianne Theuma converted a penalty towards the half-hour to equalise for Malta.
Last June, Malta had defeated Estonia in Tallinn to register the first ever win.
- As part of their ongoing effort to make it easier for all local athletes to access both top level equipment and expertise at affordable prices, The BodyForge has now proudly added the Gozo Football Association to its corporate sponsorship line. With four fantastic packages in the deal, this means that all GFA members can now avail themselves of the biggest, most modern and best-equipped, multi-level fitness facility that has ever been built in Gozo.
Located in Victoria, next to the main car park just outside Kennedy Square, about a minute's walk from Arkadia, The BodyForge is the perfect central location for anyone interested in taking their fitness and health seriously.
And now, for the Gozitan footballer, it also means they have a chance to take their game to a whole new level, by focusing on what has so far been a somewhat neglected area in local soccer – serious strength training and physical conditioning. After all, it is a well known fact that soccer training does not only consist of the drills done on the pitch. Gym training offers great advantages to the serious soccer player, by improving core strength and specifically focusing on the weaker areas of the player that can result in a great improvement in the game on the field.
"The BodyForge offers the ultimate gym area where all soccer players now have access to the best equipment in Gozo with which to improve the level of their game," says Mr. Alvin Grech, current president of the GFA. "They have given us a superb package and we are very happy to be able to pass all these benefits on to all our members. We are proud to have The BodyForge as our official GFA gym and we look forward to having our players train there. Better conditioned football players can only mean an improvement in the level of the game for all of Gozo."
The BodyForge is under constant professional supervision, where members have access to specially selected equipment from the top brands in the industry, none of which has ever been available in Gozo, each piece being custom-built especially for the facility. The equipment range includes cardiovascular machines, selectorized machines, plate loaded machines, Olympic machines and free weights.
Members can opt for the top personal training service available in Gozo, where they will receive individual attention that helps them achieve their goals safely while cutting down the hit-and-miss game that one would invariably have to go through when training on their own. This includes individualized training programs and tailormade diets, depending on the condition and goal of each specific person, maximizing results and minimizing the frustration which so often leads to people dropping out of a gym.
"I encourage all GFA members to take advantage of this corporate sponsorship and sign up to The BodyForge," says Mr. Grech. "Now that we have such superb means to do it, it's a great time to take Gozitan football to the next level."
- Wednesday 5th November 2008 has proven to be one to remember for all those present at the launch of the Interfaculty Football Tournament organised by MUSC (Malta University Sports Club) and KSU (Kunsill Studenti Universitarji) at the University of Malta synthetic grounds. The motivational speeches given by Hon. Dr. Clyde Puli, Dr. Owen Bonnici and Dr. Mary Anne Lauri were undoubtedly much appreciated by the University students.
Hon. Dr. Clyde Puli was very pleased with the overwhelming response from the students who applied for the tournament. The participation of twenty 5-a-side teams shows that sports is alive and well amongst youths. The Minister of Youth and Sports also emphasised the importance of including sports in one’s daily routine and he also encouraged both MUSC and KSU to continue organising such events and promote them at their respective stands this week during European Youth Week in Valletta.
Dr. Owen Bonnici also showed much enthusiasm for the Interfaculty Tournament and suggested that the University of Malta establishes a football team of its own and participates in both national and international competitions. On reminiscing about his University years, Dr. Bonnici also encouraged students to participate in such events.
Last, but certainly not least, Dr. Mary Anne Lauri – the Pro-Rector of the University of Malta – credited KSU and MUSC for working successfully together. Dr. Lauri also agreed with Hon. Dr. Clyde Puli regarding the importance of integrating sports into one’s lifestyle. One important point that Dr. Lauri brought up was the fact that no gender discrimination is being associated with the Interfaculty Tournament as is strongly enforced by the social policies abided by both the Malta University Sports Club and Kunsill Studenti Universitarji.
Following the speeches, four football games were played and these were the results:
ICT1 vs FEMA4 3-6; MD vs IT 4-4; Erasmus vs Nursing 1-2; B.Sc. Biology & Chemistry 1 vs Forensic Studies 0-4
KSU and MUSC encourage students to show their support and to keep themselves updated via the KSU notice board found near the canteen entrance.
Sat 8
- FA Trophy Tarxien R. vs Msida SJ 4-2 aet, Hibernians vs Vittoriosa S. 3-0
- The Malta Football Association announced changes in fixtures for two BOV Premier League matches.
The two matches Qormi vs Valletta and Hibernians will now be played as follows:
Saturday 15 November - 14:00 Qormi v Valletta - Hibs Ground
Sunday 16 November - 14:00 Hibernians vs Tarxien R. - Hibs Ground
Another two matches are scheduled on Sunday at the Victor Tedesco Stadium: 13:45 Sliema Wanderers vs Msida St. Joseph and 15:45 Marsaxlokk vs Birkirkara.
Fri 7
- Second Division Lija A. vs Melita 0-2, Mellieha vs Marsa 1-0
- Malta suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat to Macedonia in the first match from the UEFA Women's Mini-Tournament which is being held in Skopje.
It was a fine performance by Pierre Brincat's side after claiming the first ever win last June against Estonia.
Malta was leading 2-1 at the end of the first half thanks to goals by Rachel Cuschieri and Rebecca D'Agostino. N. Andonova had scored for Macedonia in the first half with Andreevska and Salihi enabling the hosts to turn defeat into victory after the break.
The next game is against Estonia on Sunday while on Wednesday, Malta plays the last game against Armenia.
- Nigerian-born striker Ndubisi Chukunyere joined First Division side Vittoriosa Stars.
Chukunyere arrived in Malta in summer 1997 and after a short trial with Birkirkara, he joined Hibernians where he spent eight years. In summer 2005, he moved to Valletta but his stay lasted only a few weeks as he was released. Chukunyere returned with Hibernians in season 2006/07 where he spent another two years.
The 28-year old striker will be joining Anthony Eviparker in attack as the Stars aim high this season.
Thu 6
- Third Division Section A Luqa SA vs Sirens 2-3
- Third Division Section B Zurrieq vs Attard 2-0
Wed 5
- Rabat Ajax defender Jonathan Bezzina was handed a one-match ban after being sent off in the U*BET FA Trophy match against Hamrun Spartans on Saturday.
However since Rabat were eliminated from the competition, Bezzina will miss the first league match against St. Patrick.
In Division 1, Ryan Mintoff (Dingli), Pio Vassallo (Mosta) and Alex Camilleri (Vittoriosa) were banned for one match.
Pembroke Athleta coach Roland Sollars was suspended for two matches in Division 3 while Kevin Gatt (Fgura) was suspended for one match.
In the Youth League, Marsa Under-19 coach Alfred Micallef was handed a two match ban and Marsa player Melvin Borg was suspended for three matches. Andrew Caruana Scicluna (Melita), Christian Zammit (St. Patrick) and Nicholas Abdilla (Zurrieq) were all banned for one match.
- During the past year, Pietà Hotspurs Youth Nursery gave the opportunity to a number of players forming part of their nursery to train and attend a trial with Italian Serie A side Empoli. The Empoli youth sector is renowned as one of the best in Italy with a number of their products earning a place in the club's senior team, also proceeding to other clubs as it was the case of Vincenzo Montella.
This time, the Pietà Nursery will be sending three of its young players, namely Kyle Cesare, Matthew Grech and Clive Gauci for a one-week training camp as these have been chosen after several trials in Empoli. They will be accompanied by Under-15 coach Simon Cassar.
These three boys were already selected a few months ago by a scouting group from Empoli Calcio and now they are being followed attentively by Empoli's youth sector.
On November 18 and 19, Empoli will be sending more scouts to Malta to watch the Pietà 1994, 1995, 1998 and 1999 groups.
Tue 4
- In preparation for their competitive matches in qualifying rounds of UEFA competitions next year, Malta will be taking part in a friendly mini-tournament for national women's teams in Skopje, Macedonia, between the 7th and 12th November. The nations taking part are hosts Macedonia, Malta, Armenia and Estonia.
National team coach Pierre Brincat will be eyeing more experience for his squad and hopes the tournament will be a useful try-out for his team.
"After playing the home team - Macedonia on Friday, two days later we will come up against Estonia, whom we beat in the last tournament in what turned out to be a very difficult match for us. On Wednesday, we finish our commitments against Armenia," said coach Brincat.
"In this tournament I have three first team players missing, two due to work commitments, an increasing problem which is hindering my selection, and the other due to a knee injury. I have included two new players, Kelly Agius Pace and Theresa Zammit."
"At the moment we have a lot of young players and through such matches they are bound to get a lot of experience," continued Brincat, who also said that next year he will include three more players in the Malta squad since they will have reached the age of sixteen.
"Together with my assistant Mark Gatt, I have been preparing my squad well for this tournament, and in my opinion we are gradually improving and looking forward to getting good results, including a second win since we ventured on the international scene," concluded the Malta women's team coach.
The Malta squad is made up of:
goalkeepers Sharon Costantino (Birkirkara), Nina Dimech (Birkirkara);
defenders Rebecca D’Agostino (Mosta), Mandy Debono (Hibs), Chantal Fenech (Birkirkara), Natasha Pace (Mosta);
midfielders Maria Azzopardi (Hibs), Catherine Camilleri (Birkirkara), Ylenia Carabott (Mosta), Rebecca Chircop (Mosta), Rachel Cuschieri (Birkirkara), Stefania Farrugia (Birkirkara), Karen Lia (Mosta), Kathleen Saliba (Hibs), Dorianne Theuma (Mosta);
forwards Kelly Agius Pace (Birkirkara), Roxanne Gatt (Mosta), Maria Theresa Zammit (Mosta).
- The case filed by FIFA and the World Anti-Doping Agency against three Maltese players and the Malta Football Association will be heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on November 24 and 25. This was announced by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Tuesday.
The two international bodies joined forces to demand an increased ban against the three players, namely Ryan Grech, Gilbert Martin and Claude Mattocks, who had tested positive in doping tests carried out last season.
FIFA and WADA are seeking two-year suspensions for the players who were given lighter sentences by the Malta Fotball Association.
Ryan Grech of Tarxien Rainbows and Gilbert Martin of Mosta were both banned for nine months while Valletta midfielder Claude Mattocks, who is now playing for Marsaxlokk, was banned for four months.
The first two cases will be heard on Monday 24 while Mattocks' case will be heard on Tuesday 25.
- The Mario Muscat Goalkeepers School in collaboration with the Gozo Football Association will be organising a four-day goalkeepers' training camp between Sunday 21st and Wednesday 24th December. This training camp, which will be held in Gozo will only be open for Gozitan goalkeepers.
Applications may be forwarded to any club head coach, the GFA or by calling Mario Muscat on mobile number 79620045 (muscatgk@di-ve.com or www.keeperschool.com).
This camp will include 16 hours of professional training, lectures, a full goalkeeper kit, an evaluation certificate and a
group photo.
The closing date is December 1st.
Mon 3
- Third Division Section A Qrendi vs Mdina K. 1-4
- Third Division Section B Santa Lucia vs Mtarfa 1-0
- The Malta Football Association will be organising another Instructional Meeting for holders of Foundation, YDD and UEFA ‘C’ Licence coaches.
This meeting will be held on Monday 10th November 2008 at the Technical Centre and will commence at 17.30 hrs.
The session will be a theoretical one conducted by Dr Clive Bezzina.
All coaches are advised to be punctual for this Instructional Meeting.
Sun 2
- FA Trophy Msida SJ vs San Gwann 3-0, Pietà H. vs Qormi 1-3
- Second Division Balzan Y. vs Sta. Venera L. 4-0, St. Andrews vs Birzebbuga SP 1-1
Sat 1
- FA Trophy Hibernians vs St. George's 2-0, Rabat A. vs Hamrun S. 1-3
- First Division Vittoriosa S. vs Dingli S. 1-1, Mosta vs Mqabba 3-1
- National coach Dusan Fitzel included five new players in the national squad which will start its preparation ahead of next year's 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The new faces include two foreign-based players - Igea Virtus defender Andrei Agius and Lokomotiv Sofia striker Daniel Bogdanovic. The other three players are Sliema Wanderers defender Alex Muscat, Hibernians midfielder Clayton Failla and Birkirkara striker Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza.
Bogdanovic will be making his return to the national team after an absence of fifteen months after making his debut in February 2002. Agius, on the other hand, made his debut in the Malta International Tournament 2006, playing two matches.
Alex Muscat also made his debut for the national team during the Malta International Tournament, two years earlier.
Clayton Failla played for all national teams from the Under-17 to the Under-21 sides while Mifsud Triganza had played for the Malta Under-16 and Under-21 sides.
Meanwhile six players were dropped from the squad, namely Birkirkara goalkeeper Omar Borg, Valletta defender Josef Mifsud, Sliema midfielder Roderick Bajada and Marsaxlokk trio Peter Pullicino, Stephen Wellman and Gareth Sciberras.
The first test for the national team is a friendly match against Iceland at the Hibs Ground on Wednesday November 19.
The next World Cup qualifier is against Albania is on February 11. Malta then hosts Denmark at Ta' Qali on March 29 before travelling to Budapest for the game against Hungary on April 1. Malta then travels north to face Sweden on June 10.
The national squad will therefore be made up of:
goalkeepers Henry Bonello (Sliema), Justin Haber (Sheffield United - ENG), Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Mario Muscat (Hibs);
defenders Andrei Agius (Igea Virtus - ITA), Ian Azzopardi (Sliema), Roderick Briffa (Sliema), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Luke Dimech (Valletta), Clayton Failla (Hibs), Alex Muscat (Sliema), Brian Said (Marsaxlokk), Kenneth Scicluna (Valletta), Aaron Xuereb (Hibs);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Shaun Bajada (Birkirkara), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), Cleaven Frendo (Valletta), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Udochukwu Nwoko (Leixoes - POR), Jamie Pace (Valletta), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk);
forwards Etienne Barbara (SC Verl - GER), Daniel Bogdanovic (Lokomotiv Sofia - BUL), Andrew Cohen (Hibs), Michael Mifsud (Coventry - ENG), Jean-Pierre Mifsud Triganza (Birkirkara), Terence Scerri (Hibs), Andre Schembri (Carl Zeiss Jena - GER), Ivan Woods (Sliema).
- As part of the activities marking the European Youth Week 2008, the Malta Football Association is participating in the local events and sports activities to celebrate youth.
The Association, through its Youth and Grassroots Committee, under the chairmanship of vice-president Ludovico Micallef, has made available its portable football pitch and is in the process of setting up this pitch in Freedom Square, Valletta.
Students from several schools will be able to make use of the pitch in the morning, while the Youth FA will be taking over in the evening to conduct sessions for the nurseries between 6.00pm and 8.00pm. This will be between Sunday 2nd November and Friday 7th November.
An attraction will be the presence of national team players who will be on the pitch to conduct training sessions, courtesy of the MFA, during the morning between 10.15am and 11.00am on Thursday and Friday, the 6th and 7th November.
Such active participation by the MFA in the European Youth Week, besides showing the interest of the association in the welfare of youths through sport, enhances the week-long manifestation of the various sports activities.
Sunday 2nd November - 18:00 to 19:00 - Birkirkara and Dingli Swallows; 19:00 to 20:00 - Valletta and Naxxar Lions
Monday 3rd November - 18:00 to 19:00 - Senglea Athletic and Sliema Wanderers; 19:00 to 20:00 - Floriana and Rabat Depiro
Tuesday 4th November - 18:00 to 19:00 - Mellieha and Melita; 19:00 to 20:00 - St. Patrick and Qormi
Wednesday 5th November - 18:00 to 19:00 - Mgarr United and San Gwann; 19:00 to 20:00 - Pembroke Athleta and Mosta
Thursday 6th November - 18:00 to 19:00 - Paola Hibs and Marsa; 19:00 to 20:00 - Kirkop United and Lija/Iklin
Friday 7th November - 18:00 to 19:00 - Sta. Venera and B'Bugia Windmills; 19:00 to 20:00 - Luxol St. Andrews and Pietà Hotspurs