September 2002

Mon 30

• Premier League Valletta vs Sliema W. 0-2
• Second Division St. Andrews vs Vittoriosa S. 0-2, Tarxien R. vs Attard 7-3
• Speaking during a press-conference about the forthcoming national team matches against Israel and France, Malta national coach Sigi Held said the national team needed to improve its performance.
  Held said it is very difficult to win points in competitive matches but when facing teams at home, Malta's chances are higher, therefore giving an indication that he hopes Malta will win its first point against Israel.
  MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud said the matches against Israel and France are the first of two hectic months which will see Malta taking part in five competitions. Besides the EURO 2004 Qualifying Round and the UEFA Under 21 Championship matches against Israel and France in October and against Cyprus in November, Malta will be represented in the UEFA Regions Cup against Northern Ireland, Portugal and the Netherlands in mid-October, the UEFA Under-17 Championship Mini-Tournament against Sweden, Denmark and Northern Ireland also in mid-October and the UEFA Under-19 Championship Mini-Tournament against Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cyprus and Norway in November.
  These two matches are the only double-fixtures for Malta in the group and luckily for Malta, they are being held at home. Dr Mifsud said the association is working hard to encourage supporters to attend at the National Stadium in order to give their support. Block-tickets covering the two matches will go on sale as from October 1 at a number of outlets.
  So far around 600 French supporters have booked the ticket for the match at Ta' Qali. On the other hand, the tickets for France-Malta at the Stade de France are already sold out.
  Malta is yet to play its first competitive match against Israel and France. Malta had only faced Israel in four friendly matches. In September 1984, Israel won 2-1 at Tel Aviv, Then Malta managed to hold Israel in 1-1 draw in Haifa in December 1987. In October 1988, in Beersheva, Israel won 2-0 and won again 2-1 at Ta' Qali in January 1989. Malta and France have only faced each other at UEFA U/18 and U/16 Championship levels.
  Under 21 coach Mark Miller said that although the result against Slovenia was acceptable, the players need to improve their performance. He said the inclusion of Gareth Sciberras, Lee Lombardi and Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza should boost Malta's chances.
  The provisional squad is made up of the following players:
  goalkeepers Saviour Darmanin (Pietà) and Mario Muscat (Hibs);
  defenders David Carabott (Valletta), Jeffrey Chetcuti and Ian Ciantar (Sliema), Darren Debono (Valletta), Luke Dimech (Shamrock Rovers), Carlo Mamo and Brian Said (Sliema) and Daniel Theuma (Valletta);
  midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Joe Brincat (Sliema), William Camenzuli (Birkirkara), David Camilleri (Sliema), Jonathan Holland (Floriana), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Stefan Giglio (Lokomotiv Sofia), Noel Turner (Sliema) and
  forwards Daniel Bogdanovic (Valletta), Malcolm Licari (Pietà), Michael Mifsud (Kaiserslautern), Adrian Mifsud (Hibernians) and Chucks Nwoko (Birkirkara).
  Meanwhile the Malta Football Association announced that HSBC have renewed the sponsorship of the Youth League and the Women's League. The agreement was signed by Dr Mifsud for the MFA and James Bonello for HSBC.
• Details regarding the forthcoming EURO 2004 Qualification Matches and the Under 21 European Championship matches against Israel and France were given during a press conference which was held at the Centenary Hall, Ta' Qali.
  The 'A' matches against Israel and France will be held on Saturday October 11 and Wednesday October 16 respectively. The Under 21 matches will be held on Friday October 10 and Tuesday 15.
  For the matches of the senior team, the Malta Football Association is adopting the policy of pre-match sales of tickets, which in this case will be a combined ticket for both matches.
  Match ticket prices are as follows: West Stand (Enclosure) (Upper Tier and Reserved) - Lm18; West Stand (Enclosure) (Not Reserved) - Lm10; Millennium Stand - Lm8; North and South Stands - Lm5; Children Under-12 (North & South Stands Only) - Lm3; Persons on Wheelchair (Millennium Stand only) (*) - Free (Accompanying persons will be asked to pay the normal price).
  The following are the Authorised Ticket Retailers: Geraldu Kiosk - Republic Street, Valletta; Sultana Stationery - Merchants Street, Valletta; Eros Stationery - Wilga Street, Paceville; Star Tourism - Pioneer Road, Bugibba; Scribbles Stationery - Psaila Street, B'Kara; Il-Fornaio - Blata l-Bajda; Playcraft - Main Square, Paola; Angelo Chetcuti - University Law Students Society; National Stadium Gym Bar - Ta' Qali.
  Pre-Sales of tickets will commence on Tuesday, 1st October, 2002, and will continue up to Tuesday, 15th October, 2002. Tickets for the match Malta vs France will be available at the Stadium on Wednesday, 16th October 2002, only in case that tickets are still available by that date.
  All tickets are printed with special security marks. Persons found in possession of false tickets, will not be allowed into the stadium and will be reported to the Police. Persons caught dealing in the unauthorised sales of tickets will also be reported to the Police.
  In order to encourage supporters to buy tickets before the game, the MFA is organising a lottery for the benefit of residents of Malta purchasing any type of match ticket, except children's tickets, between the 1st and the 15th October 2002. In order that a resident of Malta may participate in this lottery, he must fill in the appropriate stub included in the ticket and deposit it in one of the appropriate containers provided at all Stadium entrances either on the occasion of the match Malta vs Israel of the 12th October or on the occasion of the match Malta vs France of the 16th October, 2002.
  The lottery draw will take place during the half-time of the match Malta vs France in the presence of a representative of the Government Department of Public Lotto.
  During this lottery draw two stubs will be drawn. The first drawn stub will be entitle the person named on the stub to two (2) air tickets and hotel accommodation on bed & breakfast basis for two (2) persons on the occasion of the EURO 2004 International Matches Cyprus vs Malta of the 19th November (U/21 Match in Nicosia) and the 20th November ('A' Match in Limassol) 2002 (Dep. 18/11 - Ret. 21/11), as well as with two (2) tickets each of these matches. Transport Airport/Hotel/Airport as well as to the Stadium of the 'A' match will be provided.
  The second drawn stub will be entitle the person named on the stub to two (2) air tickets and hotel accommodation on bed & breakfast basis for two (2) persons on the occasion of the International Matches France vs Malta of the 28th March (U/21 Match) and of the 29th March (A Match in the Stade de France, Paris) 2003 (Dep. 27/3 - Ret. 30/3) as well as with two (2) tickets each of these matches. Transport Airport/Hotel/Airport and to the 'A' match will be provided.
  The winner each of these prizes must present the corresponding match ticket to the MFA General Secretary at 280, St. Paul's Street, Valletta, by not later than Thursday, 31st October, 2002. Otherwise the prize will be forfeited.
  The sales of tickets for the Under 21 matches will be on match-days at the National Stadium, Ta' Qali.
  The price of tickets for each is as follows: West Stand (Enclosure) Only: Adults - Lm2.00; Children Under-12 - Free of charge

Sun 29

• Premier League Floriana vs Pietà H. 0-0, Hamrun S. vs Hibernians 0-3
• First Division Xghajra T. vs Balzan Y. 0-1, Rabat A. vs Naxxar L. 0-2
• Second Division Zurrieq vs Gzira U. 2-1, Qormi vs Zebbug R. 1-0
• Third Division Pembroke A. vs Fgura U. 0-2, Gudja U. vs Ghaxaq 2-0
• Gozo - First Division Xaghra U. vs Qala SJ 1-0, Zebbug R. vs Victoria H. 1-0
• Hamrun Spartans have been accused of breaking the regulations regarding the signing of players over the registration of Maltese-American player Dominic Scicluna.
  Scicluna had a contract which included a signing-on-fee of Lm 1000 and a salary of Lm 300 when the player was actually registered as an amateur player. The contract was never deposited at the MFA.
  Dominic Scicluna has already taken the club to court over the sum of Lm 1,600.
  According to the club secretary, the contract covers the travel expenses, accommodation, training allowance, insurance and car hire expenses.
  The council asked the club to present the receipts for the rental of the apartment and the car.
  If found guilty of having paid any salaries or bonuses to the player, Hamrun could have up to five points deducted and fined up to Lm2,000.
• The MFA Technical Centre will be organising another Youth Development Diploma Coaching Course. This course will be held between Saturday, 2nd and Sunday 10th November, 2002, and will be run on a full day basis.
  Those in possession of Coaching Young Footballers' Certificates or Pre-Foundation Certificates are eligible to apply.
  Application forms can be collected from the MFA Technical Centre during office hours from Mr Nunzio Frendo, Admin. Manager (Tel. 21 411 505).
  The closing date for these applications will be Monday, 28th October, 2002.
  Applications will be considered on a first come first served basis.

Sat 28

• Premier League Marsa vs Marsaxlokk 1-3, Mosta vs Birkirkara 0-3
• First Division Mqabba vs Senglea A. 1-1, St. Patrick vs Lija A. 0-0
• Second Division San Gwann vs Mellieha 4-0, Dingli S. vs Luqa SA 2-1
• Gozo - First Division Ghajnsielem vs Nadur Y. 1-1
• Gozo - Second Division Sannat L. vs SK Victoria W. 4-0

Fri 27

• Third Division Gharghur vs Melita 0-4, Mgarr U. vs Birzebbuga SP 0-1

Tue 24

• The protest filed by Floriana over the result of the Old Firm derby against rivals Sliema Wanderers was not upheld by the Protests Board of the Malta Football Association.
  The Greens had alleged that the registration of Brazilian striker Edoardo do Nascimento, who joined Sliema from Floriana this summer, was irregular because there had been an alteration in the date on one of the release forms.
  This decision means that the result, a 5-2 win for Sliema, is to stand. The Blues therefore stay in second place with ten points, two behind leaders Valletta.
• Following a surprise 2-1 win over Birkirkara, Floriana received a major boost with the confirmation that Congolese defender Riad Mynel Gango-Rtsa has signed a three-year extension to his current contract with Floriana.
  Gango-Rtsa will therefore stay at the club at least until 2006. His contract was due to expire at the end of the year.
  Gango-Rtsa, who has been playing for Floriana for the past two years has confirmed himself of one of the best foreign players to play in Malta in the recent years.
  Following the departure of his brother Rufin Oba, who moved to Belgium, Gango-Rtsa was also linked with a move abroad but this new contract means that he will continue playing in Malta.
• Three Premier League players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner after being sent off during the weekend.
  Kenneth Scicluna of Birkirkara who was sent off in the game against Floriana will be unavailable for the Stripes' next match against Mosta on Saturday.
  Marsaxlokk midfielder Brandon Zammit who was sent off in his team's 0-2 defeat to Pietà Hotspurs will miss the game against Marsa. Another player who was sent off in the same game, Danial James Cummins of Pietà will be unavailable for the game against Floriana on Sunday.

Sun 22

• Premier League Sliema W. vs Mosta 4-0, Birkirkara vs Floriana 1-2
• First Division Naxxar L. vs Xghajra T. 1-1, Lija A. vs Rabat A. 0-3, Gozo vs St. Patrick 1-4
• Second & Third Division Knock-Out Fgura U. vs Ghaxaq 1-0, Gzira U. vs Zebbug R. 1-2, St. George's vs St. Andrews 0-1, Sirens vs Vittoriosa S. 2-0
• Gozo - Second Division Oratory Y. vs St. Lawrence S. 2-0
• National Team coaches from UEFA's fifty-two member associations (including Malta's National Coach Sigi Held who will be accompanied by Mr Horst Heese, MFA's Technical Director) will attend the 5th UEFA Conference for National Team Coaches which, for the first time, will be staged at an Eastern European venue.
  The event, which will be held at the Sheraton Warsaw Hotel & Towers in the Polish capital, will commence on Monday, 23rd September and ends at midday on Wednesday, 25th September.
  UEFA's Conference for National Team Coaches is a biennial event staged after the final phases of World Cups and European Championships. The previous events were held in Stockholm (1994), Copenhagen (1996), Frankfurt (1998) and Nyon/Geneva (2000). In Warsaw, the main item on the agenda will be an analysis of the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals from a European perspective, bearing in mind that three of the top four teams were led by European coaches.
  The subsequent aim will be to draw conclusions to be taken in account as national team coaches prepare their EURO 2004 campaigns.

Sat 21

• Premier League Pieta H. vs Marsaxlokk 2-0, Hamrun S. vs Marsa 2-3
• First Division Balzan Y. vs Mqabba 1-1, Senglea A. vs Msida SJ 1-1
• Second and Third Division Knock-Out Melita vs Birzebbuga SP 4-2, Mellieha vs Luqa SA 2-0, Pembroke A. vs Gudja U. 3-1, Zurrieq vs Qormi 2-2
• Independence Cup Ghajnsielem vs Xewkija T. 1-0 aet
• Malta international defender Luke Dimech was in action for Shamrock Rovers as they registered a 2-1 win over Bray Wanderers in a direct clash in the bottom part of the table of the Eircom League. This was the second win in nine matches for the Rovers who are now eighth. Last week, Shamrock Rovers suffered a 3-2 defeat away at Cork City after they were leading the score 2-0.
• Ghajnsielem won the first honour of the season when they managed to beat Xewkija Tigers 1-0 with a goal in extra-time in the final of the Independence Cup. Joseph Attard scored the all-important goal.
  A curious incident was the fact that the match was anticipated by two hours and although the two clubs and match officials were informed, this was not the case with the media. Most supporters were not aware of the change in schedule and arrived late for the game which was already in extra-time.
  The Blacks reached the final after beating Qala St. Joseph 2-1 in the Preliminary Round, champions Nadur Youngsters 2-0 in the quarter-finals and Zebbug Rovers 1-0 in the semi-final last Wednesday.
  On the other hand, Xewkija Tigers defeated Xaghra United 4-2 in the quarter-finals and Sannat Lions 3-2 thanks to a golden-goal in the semi-finals.

Wed 18

• Following the 5-0 and 3-0 defeats to Macedonia and Slovenia respectively, Malta lost two places in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Rankings as published on Wednesday. Malta now lies in the 120th place.
  Just ahead of Malta are Vietnam, Barbados, Sudan, Singapore and the Faroe Islands while Malaysia, Panama, Swaziland, St. Kitts & Nevis and Turkmenistan are just behind Malta. Among the other European countries, Malta lies in the 48th place. Just one place ahead of Malta are the Faroe Islands (119), then Andorra are 49th (140), followed by Liechtenstein (147), Luxembourg (148) and San Marino (162).
  Leading the rankings are world champions Brazil ahead of joint-runners-up France and Spain. Germany are fourth, Argentina fifth while Mexico, Turkey, the USA, England and Italy complete the top 10.
  Malta's next commitments are next month when the locals host Israel on October 12 and France on October 16.
• After that the Protests Board of the Malta Football Association rejected a protest by Marsaxlokk over the ineligibility of Sliema's Joe Brincat, Floriana FC have filed a protest against the result of the Old Firm derby over the alleged ineligibility of former Floriana striker Eduardo do Nascimento.
  Floriana FC claim that there was an irregularity in the release form included in the registration of the player with Sliema. The Greens claim there had been an alteration in the date on one of the forms.
  The protest will be heard on Tuesday 24 September.
  Sliema won 5-2 with four goals in the second half after the result was still 1-1 at the end of the first half.
• Independence Cup Ghajnsielem vs Zebbug R. 1-0

Tue 17

• Second and Third Division Knock-Out Tarxien R. vs Kirkop U. 2-0, Attard vs Zejtun C. 1-1
• Independence Cup Xewkija T. vs Sannat L. 3-2 aet
• The protest Marsaxlokk FC had filed against the result of the Premier League match against Sliema Wanderers was not upheld.
  The First Division champions had claimed that Joe Brincat was ineligible to play for Sliema as he had not made himself available to play for Malta in Slovenia on September 7.
  However national team coach Sigi Held, who was called as one of the witnesses, declared that the player was not selected in the national squad since he was not match fit. His declaration, together with that of MFA medical doctor Dr David Attard, were given in writing as they both had to be at Ta' Qali on Monday evening when the protest was being heard.
  Marsaxlokk claim that this was not fair on their club as Held and Attard could not know what they were going to be asked. Therefore Marsaxlokk claim that they could not defend their case in the right manner.
  Brincat had sustained an injury during the national team training camp in Germany a month before and had not played for Sliema in the league match against Pietà, the UEFA Cup matches against Polonia Warsaw and for the national team against Macedonia.

Mon 16

• Premier League Floriana vs Sliema W. 2-5
• Second and Third Division Knock-Out St. Andrews vs Ta' Xbiex 3-0, Vittoriosa S. vs Siggiewi 2-1
• Balzan Youths issued a press release referring to an article regarding goalkeeper Simnn Grech that was published on one of the local newspapers.
  The club states that although "It is true to state there was a dispute between the club's committee and Simon Grech, it is false to say that Simon Grech was not included within the squad as he was on the bench. It is also false that the player had no monthly salary, as he was given one as from the beginning of this season 2002/2003 which he had accepted and signed. It was also false to say that half the amount in dispute was not offered, if anything, the committee re-offered him the same salary (which is exactly half the amount that he requested plus bonuses).
  "Apart from the above statements, we wish to also add that it was the attitude of the player that had started this dispute. His reaction of not starting the game was so negative and un-professional, that he walked out of the dressing room ten minutes before the game was about to start, and did not want to say a prayer with the rest of the squad saying "I am not with you mentally and physically". As the game started, the player did his utmost to be sent off, as a matter of fact, the referee and linesman of the game had warned him more than once. "
  "Simon Grech had spent four years with Balzan FC. He was suspended for three games for each of the past two seasons due to his un-professional attitude."
  "To make sure that he wouldn't stay with the club this season, he then asked the committee for a raise after all this had happened, which the committee decided not to accept and agreed on sticking to the budget that he had already accepted prior to the start of the season. It was not the club that fired Simon Grech, but Simon Grech himself. He insisted to make use of a clause in his contract, which gave him a free unconditional release whenever he wished. Simon Grech demanded this last Tuesday, and the committee honoured this part of the contract."
  The club concludes by saying that it will not tolerate this type of un-professional behaviour, and Mr. Simon Grech ended up by firing himself especially when saying that he would not have asked for a raise should he had started the game.

Sun 15

• Premier League Marsaxlokk vs Birkirkara 1-3, Mosta vs Hibernians 2-1
• First Division Xghajra T. vs Lija A. 1-1, Rabat A. vs Gozo 2-2
• Second and Third Division Knock-Out Zurrieq vs Gudja U. 1-0, Fgura U. vs Zebbug R. 0-2, Qormi vs Pembroke A. 2-0, Ghaxaq vs Gzira U. 1-3

Sat 14

• Premier League Marsa vs Pietà H. 0-1, Valletta vs Hamrun S. 2-0
• First Division Naxxar L. vs Balzan Y. 0-2, Msida SJ vs Mqabba 1-2
• Second and Third Division Knock-Out Melita vs Luqa SA 2-0, Dingli S. vs Gharghur 2-0
• The competitions organised by the Malta Youth Football Association kick-off this weekend with 20 matches from the various sections of the Under 16 and Under 14 Leagues.
  As this season's competitions get under way, the Malta Youth FA proudly announces that this year is the 20th anniversary of its foundation.
  During these twenty years, the Youth Football Association went through three phases in which the YFA developed its function with regards to Youth Nurseries in general. Its aims were to organize leagues for the younger generation in order to build their character, enjoy the game and at the same time, learn tactics and develop their talent.
  After 10 years in operation, the Youth FA thought of changing its direction with new strategies and the implementation of new systems to upgrade the level within the organization itself where more clubs were affiliated with the association.
  Each year, courses by qualified and professional coaches were organized at the Technical Centre at Ta' Qali to ensure that each nursery, affiliated within the association, will be guided in the right manner and well taken care of to motivate and develop the younger generation into mature gentlemen and skilful players.
  Today the Youth Football Association can boast of 45 Nurseries with one associate member (no parent club), Kalkara St. Joseph. The total number of matches increases each year. In fact, this season, there will be 735 matches between the U-16 and U-14 leagues and 400 matches between the U-12 and U-10 leagues whereas in the past only 300 and less than 100 matches were organized respectively. The target is to give more chance to the younger players to participate. Moreover for the first time in the history of the Youth FA, the U-16 league will be played at St. Aloysius' College on artificial turf.
  Over the past two years the media has helped to advertise the function of each nursery. Nurseries were invited for a weekly TV programme on Smash TV. There the young players were presented in order to help them gain self confidence. During this programme young players were asked the meaning of being young footballers, their progress and to share their experience in front of the audience.
  The Association will be receiving funds amounting to Lm10,000 from UEFA for the youth sector which will be shared equally between the affiliated nurseries in order to cope with the expenses of equipment and coaches.
  The Youth FA is planning to organize courses for administrators and also, produce licences in three different classes, for those nurseries who meet their criteria, that is, the facilities and the system within the nursery.

Fri 13

• Second & Third Division Knock-Out San Gwann vs Mgarr U. 2-1, Birzebbuga SP vs Mellieha 2-4
• Speaking during a press conference announcing the extension of the sponsorship agreement of Sliema Wanderers with Royalty Bedding, Sliema president Robert Arrigo alleged that another Premier League club was behind Marsaxlokk's decision to file the protest.
  Arrigo expressed his disappointment over this action after Sliema had loaned five players to the newly-promoted side during the close season. However the Sliema president is confident that the protest will not be upheld since Joe Brincat was not even called by the national coach and therefore the player did not refuse a national team call.
  Meanwhile Sliema Wanderers announced that they will be presenting a weekly television programme on Net TV. The programme, presented by Mario Fenech, will be screened on Fridays at 22:00 for 28 weeks.
  Royalty Bedding have extended their sponsorship to Sliema Wanderers for the fourth consecutive year. Their logo will continue to appear on the back of the Sliema shirts.

Thu 12

• Marsaxlokk have filed a protest against the result of the Premier League match against Sliema Wanderers which ended in a 1-0 win for Sliema.
  Marsaxlokk are basing their protest on the fact that Joe Brincat were not eligible to play for Sliema as he made himself unavailable to play for the national team match against Slovenia just four days earlier. According to FIFA Regulations, a player who does not play for the national team due to injury, cannot play for his club in the following five days.
  This was the first appearance for Brincat since suffering an injury while on the training camp with the national team in Germany.
  The protest is expected to be heard on Tuesday.
• In a friendly match at the MFA Training Grounds, Hibernians were defeated 1-2 by Libyan champions Al Ittihad. Al Ittihad had El Saadi Gaddafi, son of the Libyan leader, and Cameroon international Patrick Mboma in squad.
• The MFA Technical Centre will be organising another Coaching Young Footballers Course, which is the first step towards a coaching career, may apply.
  Application forms can be collected from the MFA Technical Centre during office hours from Mr Nunzio Frendo (Administration Manager, Tel 21 411505)
  The closing date for these applications will be Monday 30th September. Applications will be considered on a 'first come first served' basis.
• The Malta Football Association is holding a course for Trainee Referees and another course for FUTSAL Referees in October 2002. Persons interested to attend either of the two courses are requested to apply by not later than September 25, 2002, addressing their letter to the Head Referees Department, Malta Football Association, 280, St. Paul's Street, Valletta.

Wed 11

• Premier League Sliema W. vs Marsaxlokk 1-0, Birkirkara vs Pietà H. 2-1
• Independence Cup St. Lawrence S. vs Zebbug R. 0-2

Tue 10

• Second & Third Division Knock-Out Kirkop U. vs Sta. Lucia 1-1, Zejtun C. vs Sta. Venera L. 1-0
• Independence Cup Ghajnsielem vs Nadur Y. 2-0
• Following the inauguration of the Millennium Stand on September 3, with immediate effect, this stand will be used for spectators during domestic matches. On the other hand, the North and South Stand will no longer be opened.
  Spectators may stay in sides A and C and tickets should be bought from the Ticket Booths next to the two sides. Admission fees will be the same as those for the North and South Stands - Lm2 and Lm1.50 for ladies, children and senior citizens.
  Since the Millennium Stand is accessible for people using wheelchairs, these should now use the new stand. Entrance is free and the Entrance is from the 'Exit Gates' for the two sides. Persons accompanying them will be asked to pay as applicable.
  For Wednesday's matches, Pietà Hotspurs and Sliema Wanderers supporters are asked to stay in Side A while supporters of Birkirkara and Marsaxlokk have been assigned to Side C.
• Birkirkara and Malta international defender Michael Spiteri had to undergo a cartilage operation on both knees on Saturday.
  After missing most of last season, Spiteri returned for the Stripes in the UEFA Cup qualifying round first leg against Metalurh Zaporizhzhya but then missed the first league game against Marsa and the second leg against Metalurh due to inflammation in the knees.
  The player is expected to miss the next four matches against Pietà, Marsaxlokk, Floriana and Mosta. He could be back for the big match against rivals Valletta on October 4.
• Kaiserlautern and Malta international striker Michael Mifsud will be undergoing an surgery on Tuesday after suffering a broken nose last week in the game between the MFA XI and FC Internazionale. Despite this injury, Mifsud played for Malta in last Saturday's EURO 2004 qualifier against Slovenia.
  Michael Mifsud is expected to be out of the field of play for ten days.

Mon 9

• Second & Third Division Knock-Out Ta' Xbiex vs St. George's 0-5, Siggiewi vs Sirens 1-5

Sun 8

• First Division Balzan Y. vs Msida SJ 0-2, Mqabba vs St. Patrick 0-2, Gozo vs Xghajra T. 3-1
• Second and Third Division Knock-Out Pembroke A. vs Zurrieq 2-1, Gzira U. vs Fgura U. 5-1, Gudja U. vs Qormi 0-4, Zebbug R. vs Ghaxaq 4-1
• Gozo - Independence Cup Kercem A. vs Sannat L.

Sat 7

• EURO 2004 Slovenia vs Malta 3-0
• First Division Lija A. vs Naxxar L. 0-1, Senglea A. vs Rabat A. 2-1
• Second and Third Division Knock-Out Gharghur vs San Gwann 0-4, Luqa SA vs Birzebbuga SP 1-2
• The Malta Football Association published the report submitted by a board of inquiry set up by the association to investigate allegations of corruption made during PBS programme Total Sport of January 7, 2002.
  The board was made-up of Magistrate Dr Michael Mallia as chairman, Raymond Zammit as vice-chairman and Joseph M. Azzopardi, Alfred Debattista and Caeser Scerri. During its investigations, the board heard Joseph Micallef, Simon Farrugia, Anthony Briguglio, Henry Brincat, Joe Cilia and Joe Caruana Curran.
  The report concludes that although Valletta FC president Joe Caruana Curran and football critic Anthony Briguglio "probably had "founded suspicion of corruption or tempted corruption", they failed to report this to the MFA. Article 154 sub-section 1 of the statute of the Malta Football Association states "it is the duty of the member clubs, members, associations, registered clubs, associated clubs and affiliated associations and members there of to report to the general secretary of the association any founded suspicion of corruption or tempted corruption with regards to football matches."
  The report states that programme presenter Simon Farrugia admitted that he knew the identity of the anonymous person who made the allegations during the programme but was not prepared to reveal his name before contacting him. Farrugia promised to report back to the Board but on failure to do this, the Board assumed that this person was not ready to co-operate.
  When comparing what was said during the programme to what was told by the witnesses, the Board was given "the impression that some of the participants (in the programme) knew more than what they were prepared to reveal."
  According to the report, Anthony Briguglio was not prepared to reveal what he knew and mentioned some cases in a general way where further investigations were not possible.
  Valletta FC president Joseph Caruana Curran told the Board that "over the past years in which I have administered the club I never had proof that anyone took money to fix a match". However during the programme, he said that he had "no doubt that corruption in football existed. ... Yes, it exists. I believe it exists because I know of cases which took place long ago. I believe that such cases continue to happen." Caruana Curran went on to say "it is true that some players approach you, some players phone you, some coaches phone you. Things that happen."
  During the programme, Henry Brincat, almost challenged Caruana Curran to reveal more information. The Valletta president then said that in one case "a club president is involved".
  The report states "One must not forget that Caruana Curran is a club president himself and he himself mentioned the set-up a club needs to have to enter similar adventures: "it must be the minister of foreign affairs or that of accommodation, eh Joe www.corruption.com. But one must also have the minister of finance who is many times led by someone else who must have the benediction of the king, obviously."
  The Board asks whether Caruana Curran was ever in such a position and if he was and refused, then he should have felt obliged to report the case to the MFA. "If not, from where did he get this information?"
  The Board concludes by making clear that although there is no proof of acts of corruption by Joe Caruana Curran and Anthony Briguglio or any of the other participants in the programme, Caruana Curran and Briguglio came to know of acts or attempted acts of corruption which were not reported to the MFA as they were obliged to.
  The board of inquiry passed on the report to the council of the Malta Football Association for it "to take any measures which it deems necessary in the circumstances".

Fri 6

• UEFA Under 21 Championship Slovenia vs Malta 1-0
• Second & Third Division Knock-Out Mgarr U. vs Dingli S. 2-3, Mellieha vs Melita 3-0
• National coach Sigi Held will be adopting a cautious plan as Malta face Slovenia in the first match from the EURO 2004 Qualifying Round Group 1.
  It seems that after the heavy 5-0 defeat to Macedonia two weeks ago in a friendly match, Sigi Held's plans are defensive ones. Brian Said will be playing as a libero with Darren Debono and Luke Dimech in front of him as stoppers. On the flanks, there will be David Carabott and Jeffrey Chetcuti.
  Up front, Michael Mifsud should be included in the starting line-up although the national coach is worried that the Kaiserslautern striker could not be at his best. He fears that after suffering a broken nose in the match against Inter, Mifsud could be more concerned to avoid elbowing by the opponents' defenders.
  The starting line-up is expected to be: Mario Muscat, David Carabott, Jeffrey Chetcuti, Brian Said, Darren Debono, Luke Dimech, Gilbert Agius, Stefan Giglio, Michael Mifsud, George Mallia, Chucks Nwoko.
  Also at his disposal are Saviour Darmanin, Ian Ciantar, Daniel Theuma, William Camenzuli, Noel Turner, Daniel Bogdanovic and Adrian Mifsud.
  Meanwhile the coach of World Cup finalists Slovenia, Bojan Prasnikar, was once again very cautious when speaking about Malta. He said that after watching the videotapes of Malta's friendlies against Macedonia and Inter, "we realized some interesting facts: it's clear that we won't have an easy job. All Malta's opponents had serious problems with them. On Saturday, we have to play very motivated and with a high level of concentration."
• The Youth Football Association Pepsi Seminar held recently covered different aspects of training and care for young players attending football nurseries. The seminar was well attended by representatives from all youth nursery clubs.
  The aim of the seminar, as explained by the President of the Youth Football Association Fr Hilary Tagliaferro, was to tackle important issues that coaches and club administrators come across in their regular training and commitment at the 45 youth nurseries in Malta. The draws of the Youth FA competitions for the new season 2002-2003 were carried out at the end of the seminar.
  UEFA Professional Lic. and B'Kara FC coach, Stephen Azzopardi, spoke about the relationship between the coach and the nursery club administrator, while Children Service Manager at Agenzija Appogg, Brian Magro, discussed child development and the prevention of child abuse. MFA official, Oliver Lautier, referred to the importance of updating registration forms at nursery clubs.
  Various other points were discussed such as the Youth FA statute and prior to the draws of the competitions, the Chairman of the Competition Rules Committee, Joe Cassar, explained the competition rules for this new season.
  Pepsi Brand Executive, Joanne Scerri Valentino, said: "Pepsi recognizes the sterling work carried out by the Youth FA in organising competitions and co-ordinating football festivals, in particular those sponsored by Pepsi. Such festivals provide young players with the opportunity to develop their talents in a friendly atmosphere."

Thu 5

• Gozo - Independence Cup Xewkija T. vs Xaghra U. 4-2
• Malta Under 21 national coach Mark Miller is expected to make only one change from the team which lost 2-0 in a friendly match against Macedonia two weeks ago when Malta takes on Slovenia in the first match from the UEFA Under 21 Championship qualifying round on Friday. Hibernians striker Andrew Cohen is set to replace Ryan Mintoff of St. Andrews in the starting line-up.
  But this is not the only change as Miller will be changing his plans and will be using a libero who should be Etienne Barbara of Floriana.
  The starting line-up is expected to be: Justin Haber (Birkirkara); Clint Micallef (Birkirkara), Clifton Ciantar (Floriana), Shawn Tellus (Sliema), Etienne Barbara (Floriana), Ian Azzopardi (Floriana), Andrew Cohen (Hibs), Kevin Sammut (Sliema), Antoine Zahra (Hibs), Jonathan Bondin (Valletta), Brandon Zammit (Marsaxlokk).
• Third Division sides Kirkop United and Fgura United will be contesting the final of the third edition of the Magi Arredamenti Fgura United Pre-Season Tournament.
  In Group A, Fgura United emerged as winners after beating Zejtun Corinthians 2-1 in a decisive match on Tuesday. Before this match, Zejtun had defeated Tarxien 1-0 and Ta' Xbiex 10-1. On the other hand, Fgura beat Ta' Xbiex 3-0 and drew 2-2 with Tarxien.
  Kirkop United won group B following a 9-0 win over Luqa, a 2-1 win over St. George's and a 1-1 draw with Zebbug Rangers.
  The final will be played at the Pace Grasso Ground on Wednesday September 11, kick-off at 17:30.

Wed 4

• National coach Sigi Held named an 18-man squad which left Malta on Wednesday evening destination Ljubljana where the national team faces Slovenia in the first match from the EURO 2004 Qualifying Round Group 1.
  Missing from the squad are the injured midfielder Joe Brincat and David Camilleri, both of Sliema Wanderers. The two players were the only ones from the provisional squad not to play on Tuesday in the Millennium Stand Inauguration Match against Inter.
  Held dropped another three players - defender Carlo Mamo of Sliema, midfielder Jonathan Holland of Floriana and forward Malcolm Licari of Pietà Hotspurs.
  On the other hand, Michael Mifsud, who suffered a broken nose in the friendly match against Inter on Tuesday, was included in the squad.
  The squad is therefore made up of goalkeepers Saviour Darmanin (Pietà) and Mario Muscat (Hibernians);
  defenders David Carabott (Valletta), Jeffrey Chetcuti and Ian Ciantar (Sliema), Darren Debono (Valletta), Luke Dimech (Shamrock Rovers), Brian Said (Sliema), Daniel Theuma (Valletta);
  midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), William Camenzuli (Birkirkara), Stefan Giglio (Lokomotiv Sofia) and Noel Turner (Sliema) and
  forwards Daniel Bogdanovic (Valletta), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Adrian Mifsud (Hibernians), Michael Mifsud (Kaiserslautern) and Chucks Nwoko (Birkirkara).
  The national team plays Slovenia on Saturday at the Central Stadium of Ljubljana, kick-off at 20:15.
• Malta Under 21 national coach Mark Miller named the squad for Friday's UEFA Under 21 Championship qualifying match against Slovenia.
  Missing from the squad is Pietà defender Gareth Sciberras, injured, while Roderick Farrugia who formed part of the U-21 squad for the friendly in Macedonia was not included. On the other hand, Nicolo Baldacchino and Trevor Cilia, both of Floriana, were included after missing the last game.
  Etienne Barbara is one of the eighteen players selected. The Floriana midfielder had abandoned a training session last week following a clash with Miller. However the dispute was solved during a discussion between the two.
  The Under 21 squad is therefore made up of:
  goalkeepers Reuben Gauci (Floriana), Justin Haber (Birkirkara);
  defenders Ian Azzopardi and Clifton Ciantar (Floriana), Clint Micallef (Birkirkara), Ryan Mintoff (St. Andrew's), Shawn Tellus (Sliema);
  midfielders Etienne Barbara and Shaun Bajada (Floriana), Roderick Bajada (Hamrun), Jonathan Bondin (Valletta), Christian Cassar (Floriana), Kevin Sammut (Sliema) and
  forwards Nicolo Baldacchino and Trevor Cilia (Floriana), Andrew Cohen and Antoine Zahra (Hibs), Brandon Zammit (Marsaxlokk).
  The match is scheduled for Friday at the ZSD Stadium in Ljubljana, kick-off at 16:30. The officials are from the Georgian FA.
• After winning the Cisk Export Beach Soccer Tour, Wiggles where off to Italy, where they obtained very a positive result. In fact, the team managed to reach the final only to place second.
  In the semifinal, Wiggles played against the strong side of Pulsano. This team were classified third in the Italian Beach Soccer Championships. After the first session the team was losing 1-3. However, in the second and last session, Wiggles brought the result to 3-3 with goals from Kevin Mifsud and Stephen Said. Another two goals by Fabio Cauchi and Mark Marlow ended the match 6-4 in favour of the Maltese thus earning them a place in the final.
  In the final, Wiggles played against another strong team, Beach Sporting Club from Monopoli. The team's line up included Cicco Fanti who played more than 400 games in Serie A with Lazio and Avellino and Luigi Agostino with over 200 games in Serie A with Lazio. Other players included a talented Brazilian player and another player who played with the Italian Beach Soccer national team.
  Wiggles' Fabio Cauchi put his team in front after only a few minutes but from then onwards, the team's efforts to increase the score were not enough as Beach Sporting Club's keeper gave a splendid performance. The Italians fought back and managed to score two goals by the end of the first session only to bring the result to 3-1 by the end of the third session.
  In the final session, Wiggles managed to level the score to 3-3 with goals from Stephen Said and a great goal by Mark Marlow. But in the last minutes Beach Sporting Club's Luigi Agostino scored again thus obtaining his team the '1st Memorial Dominco Zaccaro' title.
  The match was followed by presentations by ex-Juventus player Alenikov and Marizio Iorio. One of the high point of the participation of our team was Fabio Cauchi being awarded the player of the tournament award, winning the award from other top players. Cauchi is a Valletta player, currently on loan with Msida St. Joseph.
• Gozo - Independence Cup Ghajnsielem vs Qala SJ 2-1

Tue 3

• The new Millennium Stand at the National Stadium, Ta' Qali was inaugurated by the President of the Republic, Prof Guido de Marco on Tuesday.
  Following a welcome speech by the president of the Malta Football Association Dr Joe Mifsud, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport Jesmond Mugliett and the President of the Republic Guido de Marco addressed the distinguished guests.
  Prof De Marco then cut the symbolic ribbon at the main entrance of the stand and a commemorative plaque at the main lobby was unveiled. Archbishop Joseph Mercieca then blessed the stand.
  In the mean time, during the warming-up of the players, there was a performance by the Malta Police Band and Ira Losco.
  Inter defeated the MFA XI 2-0 in the Millennium Stand Inauguration Match.
  Despite having all European internationals missing due to their national team commitments, the Inter side presented by coach Hector Cuper was still made up of several world-class players such as Argentinians Hernan Crespo and Javier Zanetti and Uruguay's Alvaro Recoba.
  Inter dominated from start to finish but the locals still managed to control their more illustrious opponents suffering just two goals midway in the first half. They took the lead on 29 minutes when off a corrner by Alvaro Recoba from the right, Ian Ciantar headed home for a classic own-goal. The nerazzurri doubled the score on 34 minutes. Alvaro Recoba received a pass on the left by Almeyda and beat Muscat with a powerful low shot from the edge of the area. Click here for match report
• Malta international defender Luke Dimech made his debut in the Irish Eircom League after joining Shamrock Rovers on Monday as they hosted Shelbourne at Tolka Park. The former Sliema Wanderers defender played the whole 90 minutes for his new club after signing a short-term contract. The match ended in a 0-0 draw.
• The Malta Football Association Technical Centre will be organizing an Instructional Meeting for C Licence, Foundation and 'Coaching Young Footballers' coaches on Monday 9th September at the MFA Training Ground, Ta' Qali. The Instructional Meeting will commence at 18:30. The practical session will be conducted by Horst Heese, Technical Director.

Mon 2

• Malta international defender Luke Dimech joined Irish Premier League side Shamrock Rovers. The former Sliema Wanderers defender moved to Ireland following trials with Notts County and Lincoln City.
  With Shamrock Rovers, who were eliminated from the UEFA Cup qualifying round last week by Djurgardens of Sweden, Dimech already played a friendly match last week in which he managed to impress the management of the club.
  Shamrock were hoping to receive the international clearance in time for him to play in the league game against Shelbourne. Otherwise he will be making his debut on September 15 against Cork City.
  Shamrock Rovers are currently second from bottom in the Irish Premier League table with just one win and one draw in six Premier Division outings.
• The new Millennium Stand at the National Stadium, Ta' Qali will be inaugurated on Tuesday. The opening ceremony kicks-off at 16:30 and after a performance by the Malta Police band, H.E. the President of the Republic Guido de Marco and Archbishop Joseph Mercieca are expected at around 17:00. Following a welcome speech by the president of the Malta Football Association Dr Joe Mifsud, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport Jesmond Mugliett and the President of the Republic Guido de Marco will be addressing the distinguished guests.
  Prof De Marco will then cut the symbolic ribbon at the main entrance of the stand and a commemorative plaque at the main lobby will be unveiled. Archbishop Mercieca will then bless the stand.
  A guided tour of the stand for the VIP's and a reception will follow. In the mean time, during the warming-up of the players, there will be a performance by the Malta Police Band and Ira Losco.
  The President of the Republic then meets the match officials and the players of the MFA XI and FC Inter and the match kicks-off at 19:15.
• Inter's latest signing - Argentina international Hernan Crespo was included in Inter's 18-man squad for the Millennium Stand Inauguration Match against the MFA XI at the National Stadium on Tuesday. On the other hand, as expected, FC Internazionale coach Hector Cuper had to drop the remaining European internationals he had included in the provisional squad. Therefore Italian internationals Toldo, Di Biagio, Materazzi and Coco, Under 21 international Giovanni Pasquale and Sergio Conceicao of Portugal are not part of the squad. Adani, Cannavaro, Farinos, Cristiano Zanetti and Vieri were already ruled out.
  The squad is therefore made up of:
  goalkeepers Alberto Fontana and Enrico Rossi;
  defenders Ivan Ramiro Cordoba, Luca Franchini, Carlos Alberto Gamarra, Gonzalo Sorondo, Nelson David Vivas, Javier Zanetti;
  midfielders Matias Almeyda, Fabrizio Biava, Nicola Beati, Stephane Dalmat, Andres Guglielminpietro, Domenico Morfeo and Mario Rebecchi;
  strikers Mohammed Kallon, Obafemi Martins and Alvaro Recoba.
  The squad arrives on Tuesday morning at 11:30 on flight SZ 9240 operated by Azzurra Air. On their arrival, the players and officials of FC Inter will be transferred by coach from the apron of the Malta International Airport and will not go through the Arrivals Lounge. The Inter squad leaves Malta after the game.
  Meanwhile the Malta Football Association announced that tickets will be sold from the Ticket Booths in the West Stand Parking Area (for the West Stand - Enclosure); next to the Millennium Stand Side C (for the North Stand and Millennium Stand Side C) and next to the Millennium Stand Side A (for the South Stand and Millennium Stand Side A).

Sun 1

• Premier League Hibernians vs Floriana 4-1
• Gozo - Independence Cup Xaghra U. vs Victoria H. 2-1 aet, Oratory Y. vs St. Lawrence S. 0-1
• The Under 16 Section A league will be played on the new synthetic pitch at St. Aloysius College, Birkirkara as from this season. This was announced during the Youth FA Pepsi Seminar which was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sliema on Saturday.
  The seminar consisted of talks by Brian Magro from the Agenzija Appogg, Stephen Azzopardi - coach of Birkirkara and Oliver Lautier - an official from the registrations department of the MFA. Joe Cassar, chairman of the Competition Rules Committee presented the Competition Rules for season 2002-03 and the draws for the Under 14 and Under 16 Leagues followed.
  The Youth FA competitions kick-off on September 14. Forty-three teams are playing in the Under 14 League with 11 tams in Section A, 13 teams in Section B, 10 in Section C1 and 9 in Section C2. On the other hand, forty teams are taking part in the Under 16 League with 12 in Section A, 12 in Section B and 16 in Section C.
  Youth FA president Fr Hilary Tagliaferro said the Under 16 League Section A will be played at St. Aloysius on Sundays between 08:30 and 16:30. He said the contract negotiated between the management of the complex and the Youth FA is based on a number of conditions. Fr Hilary said the Youth FA will not tolerate any misconduct by officials or parents. Harsh disciplinary action will be taken in such cases.
  The relationship between the coach and the nursery administrators was the topic for the talk by Stephen Azzopardi. Azzopardi said there should be a clear distinction between the administrative part and the technical setup in the nursery. Coaches need to understand the role of administrators and vice-versa.
  Coaches are not only those who train the children and look after them. Coaches are responsible for the children's education, need to communicate with parents and organise social activities among other duties. The head-coach should meet regularly the other members of the technical sector such as coaches, doctor, masseur, physiotherapist, team manager and kit-manager.
  There should be teamwork between the administrative and the technical staff. All these should have a professional mentality and need to communicate with each other. Problems would arise in the nursery if there are lack of communication, interference and quantity is given preference over quality.
  The coach's duties are to base his work on the club's policy and not work on his own agenda. He should work for the good of the children and be accountable. On the other hand, administrators should respect coaches and honour all obligations.
  MFA vice-president Ludovico Micallef spoke about the grants given by UEFA for youth development. As from next season the sum amounting to about Lm 70,000 will be distributed according to the licences which each nursery will have.
  Fr Hilary concluded the seminar by thanking the sponsors - Cassar Shipyards, Pepsi and a new firm which is set to sponsor Under 16 competitions. Thanks to this sponsor, there is the possibility of a new competition for the teams playing in the Under 16 Section A which would be held at the end of the season.
• National coach Sigi Held named a 23-man squad for Tuesday's Millennium Stand Inauguration Match between the MFA XI and Inter and Saturday's EURO 2004 Qualifying Match between Slovenia and Malta.
  Included in the squad is Joe Brincat who is yet to play a game in three weeks after sustaining an injury during the training camp in Germany.
  The squad is made up of goalkeepers Saviour Darmanin (Pietà) and Mario Muscat (Hibernians);
  defenders David Carabott (Valletta), Jeffrey Chetcuti and Ian Ciantar (Sliema), Darren Debono (Valletta), Luke Dimech (Shamrock Rovers), Carlo Mamo and Brian Said (Sliema), Daniel Theuma (Valletta);
  midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Joe Brincat (Sliema), William Camenzuli (Birkirkara), David Camilleri (Sliema), Stefan Giglio (Lokomotiv Sofia), Jonathan Holland (Floriana) and Noel Turner (Sliema) and
  forwards Daniel Bogdanovic (Valletta), Malcolm Licari (Pietà), George Mallia (Birkirkara), Adrian Mifsud (Hibernians), Michael Mifsud (Kaiserslautern) and Chucks Nwoko (Birkirkara).
• Mr Joseph Schembri, better known as "It-Tripolin" was presented with an award during UEFA's annual Gala in Monaco on Thursday. Schembri, together with other six personalities coming from France, Denmark, Belgium, Austria, Spain and Sweden, was presented with the award known as 'The Magnificent 7'. His nomination was accepted by UEFA following the personal recommendation of MFA President Dr Joe Mifsud.
  Schembri served as a kit-manager of the Malta FA for over 45 years and who since his official retirement in 1992 and in spite of his age is still helping the present MFA kit manager Carmelo Gauci.