June 2008
Mon 30
- The possible opponents for Valletta in the UEFA Champions League first qualifying round and for Birkirkara and Marsaxlokk in the UEFA Cup first qualifying round were confirmed on Monday as UEFA published the official seedings for teams in the two competitions. The draws will be held at the UEFA Headquarters in Nyon on Tuesday.
With Malta being ranked 50th on club level - the worst ranking ever in UEFA competitions, the three Maltese teams are unseeded.
The clubs in the first qualifying round of the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League have been divided into seeded and unseeded bowls in line with their club rankings for the draw. A ball will be taken from each bowl and placed in a large empty bowl in the middle, where they will be shuffled. The first team drawn will play its first match at home, against the second team drawn. However, given that both NK Dinamo Zagreb and FC Artmedia Petržalka have high enough club coefficients to be seeded in the second qualifying round, they will receive special treatment in the initial draw.
Dinamo Zagreb will be the first side drawn for match 1 with the winner of their first qualifying round game becoming one of the seeded sides in the second qualifying round. Artmedia will then be drawn in match 2 with the winner of that game also seeded for the next round. The remaining games, all scheduled for 15/16 and 22/23 July, will be drawn in the conventional style.
The teams which are seeded in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League, and hence possible opponents for Valletta, are:
NK Dinamo Zagreb (CRO), FC Artmedia Petržalka (SVK), NK Domžale (SVN), IFK Göteborg (SWE), Anorthosis Famugusta (CYP), Tampere United (FIN), FC Dinamo Tbilisi (GEO), FK Ventspils (LVA), FK Rabotnicki (MKD), FK Modrica (BIH),
FBK Kaunas (LTU), FC Sheriff (MDA), Drogheda United FC (IRL), Valur Reykjavík (ISL), FC BATE Borisov (BLR) and FC Levadia Tallinn (EST).
The teams which are not seeded are FK Inter Baku (AZE), KS Dinamo Tirana (ALB), FC Pyunik (ARM), FK Aktobe (KAZ), Linfield FC (NIR), Llanelli AFC (WAL), NSÍ Runavík (FRO), F91 Dudelange (LUX), Valetta FC (MLT), FK Buducnost Podgorica (MNE), FC Santa Coloma (SMR) and S.S. Murata (SMR).
The draws for the first two qualifying rounds of the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League will be held at 12.00CET.
Meanwhile the first stage of the 2008/09 UEFA Cup sees the teams divided into three regional groups - Southern, Central-East and Northern - with clubs in each section being seeded or unseeded in accordance with the club rankings established at the start of the season. For each subdivision, the balls containing the seeded teams will be placed in one bowl and the balls containing the teams that are not seeded will be put in another bowl. A ball will be taken from each bowl and placed in a large empty bowl in the middle, where they will be shuffled. The first team drawn will play its first match at home, against the second team drawn.
Clubs from the same association cannot come face-to-face at this stage, and in the event of two sides from the same nation coming out of the pots, the club drawn second will be put on hold. In their place, another ball from the corresponding group pot (seeded or not) will be drawn to complete the pairing. The ball put on hold will then be moved to the next match and placed as the visiting team. Another ball will then be drawn from the other group pot (seeded or not) and placed as the home team of this match. If the clash occurs with the last pairing, the club drawn second will be switched with the corresponding seeded or non-seeded team of Match 1.
Maltese teams were placed in the Southern section together with teams from Israel, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Slovenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, FYR Macedonia, Liechtenstein, Albania, Montenegro, Andorra and San Marino.
The teams which are seeded, and hence are possible opponents for Birkirkara and Marsaxlokk, are:
Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC (ISR), PFC Cherno More Varna (BUL), HNK Hajduk Split (CRO), Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona FC (ISR), NK Slaven Koprivnica (CRO), APOEL FC (CYP), AC Omonia (CYP), NK IB Ljubljana (SVN), FC Koper (SVN), NK Zrinjski (BIH), NK Široki Brijeg (BIH).
The unseeded teams are FK Milano (MKD), FK Pelister (MKD), FC Vaduz (LIE), KS Vllaznia (ALB), FK Partizani (ALB), Birkirkara FC (MLT), Marsaxlokk FC (MLT), FK Mogren (MNE), FK Zeta (MNE), UE Sant Julià (AND), AC Juvenes-Dogana (SMR).
The draw will take place at 13.30CET. Games will be played on 17 and 31 July.
- Birzebbugia Tigers FC, an amateur club participating in the Inter Amateur Soccer Competition, will be organising a 6-a-side Soccer Tournament during the month of July.
The tournament will be held at the pitch in Pretty Bay Birzebbugia, starting in the second week of July.
Matches will be 50 minutes long. Trophies will be given to the winners and runners-up.
Applications and regulations can be obtained from Rainbow Stationery Birzebbugia or by email on birzebbugiatigersfc@onvol.net
Sun 29
- The Malta women's national team defeated hosts Estonia in the second match from the UEFA Mini-Tournament which is currently being held in the Baltic republic. This is the first ever win for the women's national team.
It was a well-deserved win for Malta as Pierre Brincat's side was a superior team in the first half, collecting eight corners against the two for Estonia. The second half was more balanced but Malta scored the goal that mattered. Among the best players for Malta were Dorianne Theuma and Catherine Camilleri.
Malta created the better chances going close on the 10th minute with a Catherine Camilleri header off a corner by Dorianne Theuma but the Estonian goalkeeper performed a great save. Five minutes later, the goalkeeper neutralised a long-distance effort by Roxanne Gatt. Towards the end of the first half, the Estonian defence came to the rescue, clearing into a corner a Karen Lia header.
On the hour, Marisa Deguara cleared off the goal line a goal-bound shot for Estonia with Maltese keeper Michelle Zahra beaten and five minutes later, Maria Azzopardi blocked into a corner another good chance for the hosts. However on 78 minutes, Malta managed to take the lead when off a freekick by Dorianne Theuma from half pitch, Ylenia Carabott anticipated the defenders and beat the Estonian keeper.
ESTONIA: Eneli Sarv, Varje Tugim, Margarita Zernosekova, Ave Pajo (69' Katrin Loo), Anzelika Ahmetsina (34' Anastassia Morkovkina), Kaidi Jekimova, Maarija Mikiver, Aljona Sasova, Kätlin Hein, Kethy Õunpuu, Olga Tsuiko (22' Berle Brant).
MALTA: Michelle Zahra, Rebecca D'Agostino, Dorianne Theuma, Ylenia Carabott, Marisa Deguara, Karen Lia (46' Rebecca Chircop), Roxanne Gatt (85' Kathleen Saliba), Stephania Farrugia (59' Leslie Ann Galea), Maria Azzopardi, Rachael Cuschieri (79' Dionne Tonna).
Malta plays the third and final match against the strongest team in the tournament - Turkey in Rakvere on Wednesday 2nd July. Turkey won the first match against Estonia 6-0 and Croatia 4-2 on Sunday.
- The Annual General Meeting of the Youth Football Association was held on June 24th at the Centenary Hall, Ta' Qali.
The administrative report and the financial report were approved by all the delegates present for the meeting. Amendments to the statute of the association were also approved.
The officials of the association were uncontested but an election was necessary for the members of the council representing the nurseries.
The Council of the Youth FA for season 2008/09 will therefore be formed as follows:
President - Fr Hilary Tagliaferro; Vici-Presidents - Joe Cassar and Godfrey Pecorella; General Secretary - Joe Micallef; Honorary Treasurer - Alfred Cacciattolo; Neutral Members - Emanuel Agius, Saviour Bianchi, Charles Bugeja, Joe Pace, Francis Zammit; Members representing nurseries - John Agius, Godwin Aquilina, Henry Bray, Charles Cassar, Mario DeBattista; Observer - Joe Mallia and Spiritual Director - Fr Joe Abela.
Sat 28
- Hibernians managed to hold ND Gorica in a goalless draw in the second leg of the UEFA Intertoto Cup first round at the Sportni Park in Nova Gorica on Saturday. Gorica therefore reach the second round on a 3-0 aggregate score thanks to the three goals scored in the first leg at the Hibs Ground.
They will now meet Bulgarian side Chernomorets Burgas in the second round with the first leg being played next weekend.
This was the last time that a team was representing Malta in the competition. In fact, the Intertoto Cup will be abolished and as from next season, Malta will be represented by one team in the UEFA Champions League and three teams in the UEFA Cup.
- The transfer market will open its doors next Tuesday July 1st and clubs will have two months' time to hand in the registrations of their new players.
One team which will be having a number of changes in its squad is Valletta. Following the departure of the three foreign players, president Victor Sciriha was quick to secure the services of three national team players and an Under-21 international. The Citizens in fact signed Edmond Agius from Hibernians, Luke Dimech who played for Macclesfield Town last season and Marsaxlokk duo Jamie Pace and Cleavon Frendo.
Frank Temile moved to Dynamo Kyiv in Ukraine, top scorer Omar Sebastian Monesterolo will be playing for AEK Larnaca in Cyprus while German midfielder Heiner Backhaus is moving elsewhere. At one point, Malta international goalkeeper Andrew Hogg was also close to joining Monesterolo at AEK Larnaca but the deal seems to have fallen through.
Goalkeeper Saviour Darmanin is expected to join Marsaxlokk as he aims at playing on a more regular basis. Last season, Darmanin spent most of the time on the bench.
As regards new foreigners, Valletta have a number of players on trial and are expecting others in the coming days before taking a final decision on who will be their three foreign players. The players already on trial are Bulgarian midfielder Ivo Ginev and three strikers - Brazilian Marco Aurelio and Englishmen Callum Flanagan and Anton Robinson. Valletta are awaiting three Nigerian players - defender Robert Egbeta, midfielder Solomon Owello and striker Sunday Gabriel.
After confirming Brian Talbot as coach for the third year running, runners-up Marsaxlokk are also expected to make a number of changes in their squad.
The Southseasiders will be signing Brazilian striker Marcelo Pereira following an impressive season with Mqabba. He will replace Aleksandar Madzar who will not be retained. They have confirmed Brazilian defender Renato Garcia Conceicao and are hoping to retain Argentinean striker Julio Alcorse who was on loan with the club from Hibernians.
A new signing should be that of former Pietà, Birkirkara and Valletta goalkeeper Saviour Darmanin. The club had goalkeepers Reuben Debono and Reuben Gauci on its books for the past two years. But they will definitely work hard to strengthen their squad further following the departure of Jamie Pace and Cleavon Frendo.
FA Trophy winners Birkirkara will be searching for a new foreigner after they failed to reach an agreement with Ivory Coast striker Amed Davy Sylla who had joined the club in January, leaving a very good impression. He could be replaced by an Italian striker.
After a disappointing season, Sliema Wanderers will be aiming at challenging once again for honours. Two players who will no longer be with the squad are strikers Etienne Barbara and Carlos Eduardo Ventura 'Duda'. Barbara moved to Germany where he will be playing for SC Verl in the fourth division.
Duda, on the other hand, was released and could be replaced by one of a number of foreigners who are expected for a trial. The other two foreigners still under contract are Nigerian goalkeeper Murphy Akanji and Brazilian midfielder Andre Rocha Da Silva.
Hamrun Spartans have already secured the services of two new foreign players. After confirming Nigerian striker Alfred Effiong, they replaced defenders Precious Monye and Branislav Timotic with Floriana's Serbian midfielder Zoran Levnaic and Brazilian striker Ronaldo Paulista.
The Spartans, who confirmed Marco Gerada as coach, are reportedly interested in two international defenders Brian Said and Ian Azzopardi, both of Sliema and Floriana midfielder Manolito Micallef.
Hibernians are reportedly interested in Malta Under-21 midfielder Dyson Falzon of Valletta after they lost Edmond Agius to the Citizens. Malta Under-21 coach Mark Miller is also being linked with the job of Hibs coach.
Floriana will be having a new coach for next season following the departure of Danilo Doncic who moved to the technical staff of Lokomotiv Sofia in Bulgaria.
They lost Zoran Levnaic to Hamrun Spartans and will therefore have to search for at least one new foreigner. The future of defender Darko Krsteski and striker Yala Bolasie is not yet clear. The Greens will be definitely do their utmost to retain players like Manolito Micallef and Christian Caruana who are attracting the interest of other clubs.
Msida St. Joseph have released Brazilian striker Gilberto Dos Santos but will be retaining Pedro Dos Santos Calcado and Njongo Priso. However Priso was expected to go for a trial with a French team and therefore the Saints could have to find a replacement for him as well.
Meanwhile newly-promoted Tarxien Rainbows and Qormi have both confirmed their coaches - Noel Coleiro and Jesmond Zerafa. Both sides are expected to be working hard in the coming weeks in order to strengthen their squads for the forthcoming Premier League campaign.
- Nigerian striker Frank Temile signed a five-year contract with FC Dynamo Kyiv.
An agreement had been reached about three weeks ago but it was only now that the Ukrainian club announced the player's signing.
After signing the contract, he travelled to Austria to join the team which is currently on a training camp there.
After starting his career with Covenant FC in Lagos, Temile moved to Shooting Stars FC but then moved to Malta a couple of years ago. He started training with the Valletta youths, occasionally joining the senior squad for training sessions. In summer, Valletta coach Paul Zammit decided to have faith in Temile, signing him as the third foreigner.
After overcoming hurdles related to the obtaining of the international transfer certificate due to the fact that he was still seventeen, Frank Temile finally made his debut for the Citizens in October in the game against Sliema. He had an excellent season with Valletta, scoring ten goals and claiming the Best Forward, Most Promising Youngster and Best Foreign Player in the Melita Digital Malta Football Awards.
Fri 27
- U*BET FA Trophy winners Birkirkara will take on BOV Premier League champions Valletta in the first match of the Euro Challenge Cup which gets underway on Monday July 7. The draw was held on Friday at the MFA Headquarters, Ta' Qali.
Premier League runners-up Marsaxlokk will then be in action in the second game on Wednesday 9 and the third game on Friday 11.
The three matches kick-off at 20:00 but the venue is yet to be announced.
The following week, the three teams will be in action in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Cup. Draws for UEFA competitions will be held on July 1.
Valletta won this pre-season competition nine times - three times as Euro Challenge Cup and six times as Lowenbrau Cup. Birkirkara won the Lowenbrau Cup twice while Marsaxlokk are yet to claim success in this competition.
- The Malta women's national team suffered a 3-0 defeat to Croatia in the first match from the UEFA Women's Mini-Tournament which is currently being held in Estonia.
Ivana Leskovac and Antonijela Horvat gave Croatia a two-goal lead late in the first half before Sandra Zigic added a third goal on 73 minutes.
However Malta had its fair share of chances, going close on 14 minutes with a flying header by Catherine Camilleri just missing the target with the goalkeeper beaten. On 61 minutes, Malta was unlucky not to score after Dorianne Tonna hit the goalpost with a shot on the turn, after some good work by Ylenia Carabott. Among the best players for Malta, were Stefania Farrugia and Ylenia Carabott.
According to the UEFA Coaching mentor for the tournament Pietro Ghedin - Italian women's national team coach and former Malta national team coach, Malta did not deserve to lose by such a score. This was also the comment of Pietro Ghedin – UEFA Coaching mentor for the tournament.
MALTA: Sharon Constantino (Michelle Zahra), Leslie Ann Galea, Natasha Pace, Rebecca D’Agostino (Captain), Dorianne Theuma (Marisa Deguara), Ylenia Carabott, Dionne Tonna, Karen Lia (Kathleen Saliba), Stefania Farrugia, Catherine Camilleri, Rachael Cuschieri (Mandy Debono).
Malta meets host nation Estonia on Sunday at 17:00. The third and final match will be on Wednesday 2nd July against Turkey in Rakvere.
- Scottish first division side Dundee are currently in Malta for a ten day pre-season training camp. The Dees finished in second place last year in the Scottish first division and just missed out on Premier league promotion.
The Scots chose Malta after ex Wolves, Sunderland and Rangers player Alex Rae and now manager at Dundee had visited the Luxol Sports Complex last month and confirmed the visit. During their stay in Malta, Dundee will play last year’ s Maltese Cup winners, Birkirkara F.C. at the Luxol Stadium on Friday, 4th July at 18:30 hrs. The Luxol Stadium doors will be open for the public as from 18:00 hrs.
Meanwhile various new signings made by the Dees during these last days will be joining the Dundee squad for the Malta pre-season.
“The Birkirkara match will be a good test for our new lads” commented club chairman Dave MacKinnon on Dundee TV.
Birkirkara F.C. will be also looking to give a piece of game to their new comers, mainly their foreign players on trial.
Dundee F.C. will be leaving Malta on Saturday, 5th July, a few days before they meet Scottish Premier league side Aberdeen and English side Wolverhampton Wanderers in friendly matches at the Dens.
Thu 26
- Matthew Fenech was confirmed as president following the first meeting of the new Qormi FC committee for season 2008/09.
Clint Debono will be serving as Secretary while Anthony Saliba is the Treasurer. Redeno Apap will be holding the posts of vice-president, MFA Council member and team manager while Victor Camilleri is vice-president and chairman of Qormi FC nursery.
Marco Ciantar will be acting as Assistant Secretary and Club Delegate while Neville Spiteri is the Assistant Treasurer. The other members of the committee are Anthony Thorne - Public Relations Officer, George Micallef - Club Director,
Alan Desira - Supporters Club Chairman, Kenneth Vella - member and Anthony Debono - General Administrator.
Meanwhile the committee confirmed Jesmond Zerafa as coach and Emmanuel Vella as kit-manager.
Qormi FC will be holding a meeting for players on July 1st at 19:30 at the Conference Hall at the Halland Hotel, Tal-Ibragg.
- Charles J. Scerri was confirmed as President of Lija Athletic for another year, following the first meeting of the new committee which was held on Wednesday after the Annual General Meeting was held the day before. This will be the twelfth successive year for Scerri as Lija Athletic president.
The newly appointed Vice-President is Emanuel Bezzina who is also the chief salesperson of Gardenia Stores - one of the club's sponsors.
Carmel Bonnici and Felix Cuschieri retained the posts of Secretary and Treasurer respectively. Samuel Cutajar will be the Assistant Secretary, also in charge of the club's website, while Clinton Bonnici was appointed Assistant Treasurer.
New committee member, Jeremy A. Dalli was assigned the post of Public Relations Officer.
Sunny Scerri will be the Club's Delegate, assisted by Saviour Sammut. Charles Scerri is the Club's Council Member. Lawrence Borg is the Club's director.
Martin Falzon is the second new member of the Lija Athletic committee. The other members are William Mintoff, Charles Diedo and Carmel Cilia.
A players' meeting will be held on Friday 11th July with pre-season training starting the following Monday 14th July.
Wed 25
- Noel Coleiro was confirmed as coach of First Division champions Tarxien Rainbows. The Rainbows will be playing in the BOV Premier League next season.
Coleiro led the Rainbows to the title in his first season with the club.
Meanwhile Anthony Cassar was confirmed as president following the club's Annual General Meeting. Cassar has served as Tarxien president for the past twelve years.
Louis Zammit is the senior vice-president while Charles Cassar is vice-president. Kevin Bonavia will be holding the post of Honorary Secretary while Albert Catania was appointed Honorary Treasurer. Alphonse Saliba and Frank Vella are Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer resepctively.
John Vella will be acting as team-manager and will be representing the club in the Council. George Vella is the other member of the committee.
- Former Sta. Venera Lightnings and Balzan Youths coach Alfred Attard was appointed as assistant coach of Sliema Wanderers.
He will therefore be assisting coach Stephen Azzopardi with whom he had already worked. In fact, Attard had served as coach of the Birkirkara youth team while Azzopardi coached the Birkirkara senior side.
Attard led Sta. Venera to promotion from Division 3 to Division 2 in season 2005/06. This year, he led Balzan to the first place in the Second Division but the Youths failed to secure promotion after losing a promotion decider against Rabat Ajax.
Tue 24
- Mr. Alvin Grech has been elected as the new president for the Gozo Football Association during the Annual General Meeting held at the GFA headquarters on Monday June 23, 2008. The post was also contested by Mr Paul Buttigieg. Mr. Grech won the contest with an overwhelming majority, obtaining 27 votes from the GFA delegates against the 5 obtained by Mr. Buttigieg.
Few minutes after the announcement of the result Mr. Alvin Grech delivered a short speech to end the Annual General Meeting. Mr. Grech thanked everyone for their support and expressed gratitude for the confidence expressed by the clubs in the contest. He said that he is confident that the collaboration between the clubs and the administration of the association will continue so that football in Gozo will continue to register improvement. He said that he will be giving major attention to the Youth sector, which is a real investment for the future of the game on the island.
Mr. Grech is not a new face in the administration of the GFA. He held the post of general secretary for the past seven years, where he was instrumental to consolidate the administration of the association and to implement the projects embarked by the outgoing president Mr. Joe Cordina.
Mr. Grech is 30 years old, graduated in information technology and lives in his native village Kercem. He has always been involved in administration and before he was appointed as the general secretary of the association he held the post of secretary for Kercem Ajax FC. He is married to Michellene and has two children Victoria and Carl.
- Robert Micallef was confirmed as president of Marsaxlokk FC following the club's Annual General Meeting which was held last week.
Anthony Micallef will be holding the post of vice-president.
The club's new secretary is Peter Carabott while Carmelo Grech was elected as Treasurer. Mario Desira and Dennis Carabott will be acting as Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer respectively.
The other members of the Executive Committee are Frankie Jenkins, Francis Vella, Thomas Zahra, Peter Hartshorne and Felix Grech.
Peter Hartshorne will be acting as Council Member while Robert Micallef, Peter Carabott and Carmelo Grech are the MFA Delegates.
- Joe Schembri was confirmed as President of Mgarr United following the first meeting of the new committee which was held on Monday after the Annual General Meeting, held on the previous Sunday. This is the fourth year running for Schembri as president.
The posts of Secretary and Treasurer were retained by David Said and Chris Muscat respectively while Mayor Paul Vella and Dione Chetcuti were confirmed as Vice Presidents.
Mario Vella took a new role of Assistant Secretary and Dr. Chris Cilia was appointed as Assistant Treasurer. The only new member of the Committee Frederick Muscat was assigned the post of P.R.O.
David Said will be the Club’s Council Member and Chris Muscat will be the Club’s Delegate with Paul Vella and Mario Vella being his substitutes.
- Vittoriosa Stars FC is accepting applications from boys aged 8 to 19 wishing to join the nursery.
All the players interested can sen an email to vittoriosafc@hotmail.com or send an sms on 79263565 or 99011731.
Those players who register with the club will be provided with a free training kit.
Mon 23
- The Malta women's national team will be engaged in the UEFA Mini-Tournament to be held in Estonia between Friday 27th June and Wednesday 2nd July. Taking part in the tournament besides Malta and hosts Estonia are Croatia and Turkey.
Malta will be playing the first game on Friday at 14:00 against Croatia in Paide. They are then due to meet host nation Estonia on Sunday 29th at 17:00. The third and final match will be on Wednesday 2nd July against Turkey in Rakvere.
In a similar mini-tournament which was played in October/November 2007, Malta suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Bosnia-Herzegovina before holding Luxembourg in a 1-1 draw.
National team coach Pierre Brincat, and his assistant Mark Gatt, named an 18-strong squad, namely:
goalkeepers Sharon Costantino (Melita), Michelle Zahra (Birkirkara);
defenders Rebecca D’Agostino (Hibernians), Mandy Debono (Hibernians), Marisa Deguara (Mosta), Lesley Ann Galea (Hibernians), Natasha Pace (Hibernians);
midfielders Maria Azzopardi (Hibernians), Catherine Camilleri (Birkirkara), Rachel Cuschieri (Birkirkara), Stefania Farrugia (Birkirkara), Roxanne Gatt (Hibernians), Karen Lia (Birkirkara), Kathleen Saliba (Hibernians), Dorianne Theuma (Hibernians), Dionne Tonna (Hibernians);
forwards Ylenia Carabott (Hibernians), Rebecca Chircop (Hibernians).
The Head of Delegation of the team will be Mr. Ludovico Micallef, Vice-President of the Malta Football Association and also Chairman of the Women’s Football Committee. The other staff accompanying the team will be Tanya Gravina – Secretary, Dr. Shirley Mulvaney – Team Doctor and Elaine Vella – Physiotherapist.
The group will leave Malta on Tuesday, travelling to Tallinn, Estonia via Amsterdam. The contingent will return to Malta on Thursday 3rd July.
- Charles Abela was confirmed as Mosta FC president following the club's Annual General Meeting.
The election of a new Executive Committee for season 2008-09 was the main item on the agenda with Charles Abela, Luke Coppini and Joseph Gauci retaining their posts as club President, Secretary and Treasurer respectively as they were uncontested. However the three of them received a unanimous vote of confidence.
Vice-Presidents Michael Attard and Charles Pace, however, as well as Council Member Joe Muscat and the Assistant Kit Manager Anthony Muscat – all decided to call it a day. In this respect, club President Charles Abela thanked the outgoing members for their invaluable service to the club, especially the long-serving Michael Attard, whose great support to the club would be sorely felt. Members reciprocated with a loud ring of applause.
An unusually high number of contestants opted to contest the remaining posts in next season's Committee. In the knowledge that the number, however, matched the maximum allowed by MFA Regulations, an amendment to the Club's statute was proposed to bring it in line with that of the Association. This was unanimously approved, allowing all contestants to be elected automatically.
Club President Mr. Abela, after welcoming new members Vincent Borg, Peter Caruana, Chris Grech, Sean Grech, Noel Vella and returning-member Stephen Borg, then proceeded to show his appreciation to the returning secretary, treasurer and other committee members who had served during the past season, namely Rita Camilleri, Anthony Deguara, Anthony Formosa, Martin Galea and Joseph Quattromani.
In his concluding speech, President Abela spoke at length about last season's ups and downs. Indeed, the outgoing season had seen the club successfully finalising a milestone achievement through the Mosta FC-Government agreement for financial assistance – through which the club will be able to upgrade the Mosta Ground with synthetic turf. On the the hand, however, after a hectic season, the senior team was pipped at the post and just failed its promotion objective by a whisker.
Notwithstanding this disappointment, an emotional Mr. Abela explained that he was seeking re-election because he firmly believed he was still capable and was willing to continue to give his best to help the club attain the all-important goal, promotion to the Premier League. With the help of the newly-shaped Committee and assistance from other individuals, including Michael Attard, who will also continue to support the club financially, Mosta FC can look forward to a brighter season: hoping to make up for this season's disappointment by attaining Premier League status.
The President pointed out that with the completion of the ground project, the standing of Mosta FC in the local sporting circle will continue to be enhanced. Mr. Abela gave a brief overview of the process necessary for the commencement of works, and also touched upon the failed negotiations with Mr. Twanny Fenech over the construction of a terrace adjacent to the ground. Nonetheless the club will go ahead with its original plans in order to make this dream come true.
After thanking the Club Nursery and Supporters' Club for their sterling work month after month, the President finally appealed to all supporters to continue to rally behind the Club's Committee and support the team throughout the new season.
- Irish A Championship side Shamrock Rovers announced that they are forming a partnership with Floriana. This partnership will see both sides swapping information on training methods and best practices, as well as selling each other's merchandise.
The link will be officially launched at half-time during Friday night's game against Galway United at Tolka Park.
"The basic idea is that each club can learn from the other," says Rovers' Chairman, Jonathan Roche. "Lots of clubs across Europe have similar ties and it's something we're looking forward to developing."
The Hoops, who like Floriana, wear green and white, are the most successful club in the history of football Ireland, winning a record of fifteen league titles and 24 FAI cups. However in recent years, they failed to land any major honours, being relegated for the first time to the First Division at the end of 2005, winning promotion the following season.
Malta international defender Luke Dimech played for the club in 2002. That season, the Rovers placed second behind champions Shelbourne.
Sun 22
- After spending last season with Eintracht Braunschweig, Malta international striker Andre Schembri will be signing for German Third Division side Carl Zeiss Jena. Schembri will be joining the club on a one-year loan from Marsaxlokk.
Carl Zeiss Jena will be playing in the 3. Liga after being relegated from the 2. Liga, ending at the bottom of the table.
With Eintracht Braunschweig, Schembri played 29 league matches in the Regionalliga Nord, scoring nine goals, helping his team secure a place in the 3. Liga this season. This means that both Braunschweig and Carl Zeiss Jena will be playing in the same division.
As from this season, the Regionalliga was replaced by the 3. Liga.
Schembri made his Premier League debut for Hibernians in season 2002/03, moving to Marsaxlokk in January 2005. - Nigerian striker Anthony Eviparker will be staying with Vittoriosa Stars after signing another one-year contract with the club.
Eviparker was crowned top scorer in the BOV First Division last season after scoring fifteen goals despite missing a number of matches.
The 22-year old striker arrived in Malta in summer 2001, joining Marsa. He played Premier League football once again with Marsa the following season and then moved to Balzan Youths and eventually Floriana. Eviparker also played in Gozo for Nadur Youngsters and Xaghra United.
Sat 21
- UEFA Intertoto Cup Hibernians vs ND Gorica 0-3
- Msida SJ announced that goalkeeper Matthew Camilleri has signed a new contract with the club. Camilleri had joined the Saints from Floriana in January.
A product of the Greens, Camilleri made his Premier League debut in season 1996/97 and played for Floriana for over eight years, except for a short spell with Tarxien Rainbows. In January 2005, he joined Sliema Wanderers on an 18-month loan spell, returning with Floriana for season 2006/07.
- Benny Casha was elected as the new president of First Division side Senglea Athletic following the club's Annual General Meeting which was held on Sunday.
Stephen Spiteri will be holding the post of vice-president while David Aquilina is the new secretary. Stephen Buttigieg was appointed Treasurer while Michael Degiorgio and Clayton Ghirxi will be holding the posts of Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer respectively.
The other members of the committee are Salvu Caruana - kit-manager, Ray Vella - club director, Robert Bonello, Mark Vella and Joe Caruana.
- The new Sta. Venera Lightnings FC committee for next season 2008/09 was elected during the club's Annual General Meeting which was held on Sunday June 15th. Ten members were elected to the committee and these were appointed to the various posts in the first committee meeting which was held on Thursday 19.
Colin Calleja was confirmed as President while Johann Mifsud and Rennie Briffa will be holding the posts of Secretary and Treasurer respectively. Jesmond Xuereb was appointed vice-president.
Alfred Scerri and Johann Vella are the two Assistant Secretaries while Raymond Borg and Michael Zammit are the two Assistant Treasurers. Jesmond Xuereb will be the club's Kit-Manager with Kevin Aquilina as his assitant.
Meanwhile Lolly Aquilina was confirmed as the club's coach.
- The new committee of Sirens FC for season 2008/09 was elected following the club's Annual General Meeting which was held on June 9.
The Hon. Censu Galea A & CE MP was confirmed as president. Godwin Bonnett will be holding the post of vice-president while Martin Xuereb and Joseph Agius were elected as Secretary and Treasurer respectively.
The other members of the committee are: Assistant Secretary Lino Camilleri, Assistant Treasurer Paul Fenech, Public Relations Officer Gejtu Zahra, Paul Deguara and Francis Farrugia.
Fri 20
- Hibernians will be hosting Slovenian side ND Gorica in the first leg of the UEFA Intertoto Cup first round at the Hibs Ground on Saturday, kick-off at 18:00.
The Paolites will be doing their best to perform well in front of their supporters after a most disappointing season in which they ended playing in the Relegation Pool after winning the Euro Challenge Cup and the BOV Super Cup in the beginning of the season.
However Hibs coach Robert Gatt will be unable to field his best formation as Argentinean midfielder Pablo Doffo is ruled out through suspension after being sent off in the second leg of the UEFA Cup first qualifying round against Vojvodina last season.
ND Gorica are taking part in the Intertoto Cup after placing third in the Slovenian league last season with 57 points, nineteen points behind champions Domzale and seven behind runners-up FC Koper.
Hibernians, on the other hand, finished on top of the Relegation Pool. However they will be taking part in this last edition of the UEFA Intertoto Cup as Sliema Wanderers failed to apply to take part in the competition while Floriana and Hamrun Spartans did not hold a UEFA Licence.
ND Gorica have been taking part in UEFA competitions on a regular basis for the past twelve years with their best run being in season 2004/05 when they eliminated Flora Tallinn of Estonia and FC Copenhagen of Denmark in the first two qualifying rounds of the UEFA Champions League. Gorica, who were earlier known as HIT Gorica, won the Slovenian League four times - in 1996, 2004, 2005 and 2006 and the Slovenian Cup twice - in 2001 and 2002.
The ND Gorica squad which travelled to Malta is made up of:
goalkeepers Vasja Simcic, Jan Zibelnik;
defenders Gregor Balazic, Dragoljub Nikolic, Rusmin Dedic, Bojan Djukic, Aris Zarifovic;
midfielders Nebojsa Kovacevic, Enes Demirovic, Goran Cvijanovic, Admir Krsic, Dario Smitran, Simon Zivec, Sebastjan Komel;
forwards Mladen Kovacevic, Milan Osterc, Goran Galesic and Etien Velikonja.
Last year, Malta was also drawn with Slovenia in the Intertoto Cup first round. Birkirkara met NK Maribor with the latter winning 3-0 at the Hibs Ground and 2-1 at home.
In past, Hamrun and Marsaxlokk had also faced teams from Slovenia. In 1992, Hamrun Spartans were eliminated by Maribor Branik after losing 4-0 away from home and winning 2-1 at Ta' Qali in the Cup Winners Cup. In 2004, Marsaxlokk were eliminated by NK Primorje after losing 0-1 at Ta' Qali and 2-0 away from home in the UEFA Cup first qualifying round.
Hibernians vs ND Gorica will be controlled by officials from Romania - referee Ovidiu Alin Hategan and assistant referees Miklos Istvan Nagy and Corneliu Fecioru. The fourth official will be Philip Agius.
The return match being played at the Stadion Sportni Park in Nova Gorica on June 28. The winner of the two-legged tie will move on to the second round to meet Chernomorets Burgas from Bulgaria. The second round will be played on 5/6 July and 12/13 July.
This will be the last edition of the UEFA Intertoto Cup as from next season with the change in format of the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Cup, the Intertoto Cup will be abolished and Malta will be represented by three teams in the UEFA Cup.
- FIFA International Referee Joe Attard will be controlling the UEFA Intertoto Cup first leg first round match between MKS Cracovia Krakow of Poland and FC Shakhtyor Soligorsk of Belarus on Saturday.
He will be assisted by Konrad G. Borg and Alan Camilleri, both FIFA Assistant Referees.
Wed 18
- Marsaxlokk midfielder Kevin Sammut is the favourite to land the Footballer of the Year Award after collecting the largest number of points in the preliminary vote which took place on Tuesday.
Sammut obtained 59 votes, followed by Andrew Hogg and George Mallia on 47, Ryan Fenech on 41 and David Camilleri on 31. Camilleri and Gilbert Agius had originally obtained the same number of votes.
Among those eligible to vote were the ten Council Members representing the Clubs in the Premier Division, ten other Members of the Council and ten journalists who are members of the Ghaqda Kittieba Sport.
These players shall now be awarded points for appearances and penalised with points
for misconduct.
Points for appearances shall be awarded in connection with matches in the BOV Premier League, the U*BET FA Trophy and the EURO 2008 qualifiers with the national team. On the other hand, points shall be deducted in connection with the same matches.
Players shall be awarded three points for having taken part in a match even if the player is substituted and two points for having taken part in a match as a substitute while they be penalised with one point for each yellow card and four points for each red card. Another point is deducted if the player was found guilty of misconduct before or after a match.
The total number of votes obtained by each of the five finalists from the Committee and the points awarded for appearances after demerit points are deducted for misconduct are then converted into a percentage of the total number of votes obtained by all the five players together
The new total would also include an extra point for each player for every time he won the Footballer of the Month Award.
- Gaetano Cuschieri, Sean A. Scicluna and Emanuel Fenech were confirmed as President, Secretary and Treasurer & Media Officer during the ANnual General Meeting of Hamrun Spartans.
Daniel Sullivan will hold the post of Senior Vice President and Frans Debono, that of Vice President. Victor Cassar will once again be the Team Manager and Council Member.
The other members of the committee are: Assistant Treasurers Martin Pace and Jason Cristina, Assistant Sercetary Joe Borg, Kit-Manager Alan Cutajar, Assitant Kit-Manager Etienne Vella, Assistant Media Officer Ruben Balzan, Leonard Zammit (MFA Delegate), Maurice Galea and Paul Galea.
- The new committee of Valletta FC was elected during last Sunday's Annual General Meeting.
President Victor Sciriha obtained a total of 415 votes, followed by Joe Calleja, David Xuereb and Sergio Zampa, all on 394 votes. The other candidates who were elected are Michael Palmier, Kevin Gauci, Joe Agius, Paul Spiteri, Vince Tabone and Sean Bonaci.
The various posts will be assigned during the first meeting of the new committee.
- Mdina Knights FC elected nine committee members for season 08/09 during its Annual General Meeting held on Monday 16th June in Mdina.
Joe Vella is the newly elected President following a two-year spell serving as Honorary President. Gilbert Camilleri and Sean Buhagiar will serve the Club as Vice-Presidents with the former also occupying the role of Public Relations Officer.
Matthew Paris and Neville Pullicino were confirmed as General Secretary and Treasurer respectively. The other members of the committee are Joseph Formosa, Edmond Camilleri, Luke Dalli and Matthew Agius. Eman Pulis was unanimously approved as the Club’s Honorary President.
The AGM also paid homage to former member Mario Galea Testaferrata who passed away recently.
Meanwhile Mdina Knights would like to invite all members and supporters to join us for the Mdina Knights FC Symposium 2008 [from a past into a future] which is to be held at the KSU Conference Room, University of Malta, Msida on Friday 27th June at 19.00hrs.
Amongst other items, this event will include the announcement of new committee for season 2008/09, presentation of awards and the launching of the Mdina Knights Foundation and the Mdina Knights Soccer School. Those interested to join are kindly requested to email us on info@mdinaknightsfc.com to book their seats.
- Balzan Youths Football Nursery is accepting applications of qualified coaches interested in forming part of the Nursery coaching staff for season 2008-2009.
Those interested are to contact the officials at the club premises - Solerville, Main Street Balzan or email to Joseph Agius on balzanyouths@internet.vodafone.com.mt
- Msida St. Joseph FC re-launched their website www.msidastjoseph.com. The design and layout of the site has been based on the current trend of professional websites.
The site is rich in functions and ideas and also offers a wide variety of items which were not available before. Mainly the Music Player found on the top of the website and the Google Search Next to it. The Music Player would play any Msida SJFC song while with the search function you can search for any article in any website where Maltese football is mentioned.
Alan Abela-Wadge, PRO and the person in charge of the designing and implementation of the website commented that he is "really proud of the final product and that this confirms the way forward for the club, which aims to be innovators of fantastic ideas." He also added that "such features could only be imagined before, and finally Msida SJ can boast that they have the best website for a Maltese Football Club."
Tue 17
- Valletta secured the services of Malta international defender Luke Dimech.
This will be the fourth club for Dimech after having played with Sliema Wanderers, Birkirkara and Marsaxlokk.
Dimech played for Lincoln City before moving to Malta in summer 1995 when he joined Sliema. In summer 2002, he joined Shamrock Rovers in Ireland but returned to Malta in January 2003, joining Birkirkara. Dimech then spent two years with Mansfield Town and another year with Chester City before playing for Marsaxlokk in season 2006/07.
This season, Luke Dimech played for Mansfield Town.
- After several years this beach sport is back into action with a three-week thriller. On perfectly rigged golden sand, few steps away from the water's edge and under scorching sunshine, players will confront each other for the prestigious Coca-Cola Zero Beach Soccer Cup.
The event will be held at Golden Bay in Gœajn Tuffieœa, where a beach soccer stadium will appositely be built for three weeks to hold all the matches in programme.
This year' s edition will be organised by MBA Sports World in collaboration with the Malta Sports Council and the Mellieha Local Council. The Tour is being sponsored by Coca-Cola Zero (General Soft Drinks Co. Ltd.), Motta (Nestle Malta), Sixt (Meli Group), Eurosport (Michele Peresso Co. Ltd.), Union Print, Big Exhibits, AllSports International, Heineken (Charles Grech Co. Ltd.), Unique Promotios, Munchies Beach Café and Riviera Resort & SPA, whilst stephengatt.com, XFM, Melita Sports and One Sport are the official media partners.
The Sport
Beach Soccer focuses on some of the most spectacular aspects of modern football: skill, agility and, above all, goals. All the action happens within a beach lifestyle atmosphere and the irregular nature of the soft-sand playing surface lends itself to an entertaining style of play, with the ball spending most of the time in the air and the players forced to improvise with moments of spectacular individual flair.
A compact pitch measuring 23 x 32 meters gives players license to shoot from virtually anywhere and, with an average of sixty attempts at goal in a single game (one every thirty seconds!), goalkeepers are tested to the absolute limit. However, even they can't prevent an average scoring rate of one goal every 3-4 minutes - eleven goals in total per game!
Teamwork is also key, with each side consisting of five players (four plus the goalkeeper) and unlimited substitutions to get them through the three 12-minute periods. Throw-ins and kick-ins mean the pace and flow of the game is unrelenting and in Beach Soccer there is always a winner, with the contest going down to three minutes of overtime followed by penalty kicks if the score is tied.
The unique party atmosphere enjoyed by a Beach Soccer crowd is maintained during the three-minute breaks between periods, when music, live acts and dancers keep the entertainment flowing.
For the first time apart from male teams, this year' s edition will also be open for a female category. All Beach Soccer matches will be played between Thursdays and Sundays whilst during the other days alternative sports activities will be organised.
Every Wednesday throughout the three weeks the Malta Handball Association will organise a Beach Handball Tournament. On the other days, other beach soccer matches for kids Under 12 will be organised. Those interested to join are requested to contact the organisers by sending a request for participation to beachsoccermalta@yahoo.com.
Apart from sporting events, this edition of the Tour will also bring to you the Beach Babe Contest Competition.
Ten Beach Babes will be contesting each other on the final day of the Tour. All interested ladies willing to contest shall apply through the official registration website - www.cokezero.com.mt/superfan - include their details and upload their photos both in casual wear and swim wear. The general public shall vote online so that the ten most voted Beach Babes will then make it to the final session. All participants must be 18 years or older. The final selection will be judged by a jury made up of competent individuals in this field.
Different prizes will be at stake during this year' s edition of the Tour. The winning team from the males' category will win the prestigious COCA-COLA ZERO BEACH SOCCER CUP and will also fly to Costa del Sol in Spain to participate in a 4 day Beach Soccer Tournament in the Iberian country. The winning team shall travel to Spain in September and the lads will also be followed by a local TV Crew as a special TV show will be produced and televised during that same month.
The female category will be introduced for the first time with the aim to continue in the development and growth of this summer sport. The winning ladies' team will be presented with vouchers from the Riviera Resort & SPA in Marfa and from Unique Promotions.
The winner of the Beach Babe Contest will be crowned Miss Beach Babe 2008 and will be presented with vouchers from the Riviera Resort & Spa in Marfa and from Unique Promotions.
Mon 16
- Mr. Robert Farrugia was unanimously confirmed as President of Msida St. Joseph following the club's Annual General Meeting which was held on Sunday.
Mr. Tonio Grima was elected as Financial Director and Mr. Keith Abela-Wadge was confirmed as General Secretary.
Mr. Alan Abela-Wadge was confirmed as Public Relations Director. Mr. Darren Casha, Mr. Daniel Farruiga, Mr. Claudio Martinelli, Mr. Stephen Lovegrove, Dr. Clifton Grima, Mr. Charles Debono and Mr. Martin Micallef will also form part of this year’s Committee.
In a statement, the club thanked those who formed part of the committee in previous years and wished all the best for this new team for the forthcoming season.
- Former Under-21 national team, Pietà Hotspurs, Marsaxlokk and Sliema Wanderers coach, Ray 'Zazu' Farrugia will be taking the role of technical director of Second Division side Mellieha.
This was announced by Mellieha SC President Alfred Vella Borg during the club's Annual General Meeting.
On the other hand, Ronald Vella has been appointed as coach. As a former Mellieha player and coach, Vella returns with the club after serving as coach in the Pietà Hotspurs youth sector and as assistant coach with Sliema over the past years.
Meanwhile the club will also embark on a new venture in collaboration with Ray 'Zazu' Farrugia to set up one of the regional Zazu Football School at its new synthetic pitch facilities.
For the coming season, Mellieha will be associated with the Seabank Group as the club's main sponsor.
- The committee of First Division side St. George's F.C. for season 2008/09 was elected during the club's Annual General Meeting which was held on Friday.
Hon. Chris Agius MP was confirmed as president. George Schembri is the vice-president while Michael J. Cutajar is the club's secretary. Clyde Agius was appointed treasurer while Darren M. Scicluna and Stephen Scicluna will hold the posts of Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer.
The other members in the committee are John Calleja, Ivan Camilleri, Jason Mifsud, Etienne Falzon, Maria Said and Tessie Camilleri.
Sun 15
- The new committee of Vittoriosa Stars was formed following the club's Annual General Meeting which was held on Friday.
The committee for the season 2009/09 consists of: President Sandro Chetcuti, Vice Presidents Joseph Scicluna and Manwel Ancilleri, Secretary Jerry Ellul, Assistant Secretary Marlon Galea, Treasurer Godwin Vassallo, Assistant Treasurer Jonathan Vella and members Tony Cachia, Lawrence Ciantar, Roderick Privitelli, Renald Ciantar and Sandro Calleja. Fr John Avellino is the spiritual director.
- Following the kick-off of the Gudja Youth Nursery project which will include a brand new full-size synthetic turf pitch, Gudja Youth Nursery is currently searching for interested coaching staff to join the current staff for season 2008/2009.
Over the past few years, Gudja Youth Nursery has established itself as one of the most organized and promising nursery on the island. Currently the nursery caters for more than 100 players with ages varying from 6 to 16 years.
Interested coaches shall send a detailed CV to Kenneth Bonnici, 60 Triq il-Lewz, Gudja GDJ 1712, email on gudjayn@gmail.com or apply by phone on 79710864.
Thu 13
- Champions Valletta started their pre-season training ahead of the coming season which kicks-off with the UEFA Champions League first qualifying round in a month's time.
The first qualifying round will be played over July 15/16 and 22/23. A week earlier they will be playing in the Euro Challenge Cup together with runners-up Marsaxlokk and U*BET FA Trophy winners Birkirkara.
In the coming days, Valletta are expected to announce officially the signing of three national team players - Cleavon Frendo and Jamie Pace from Marsaxlokk and Luke Dimech. The Citizens had already secured the services of Under-21 midfielder Edmond Agius from Hibernians.
Frendo, who will be 23 years old on July 1, is a product of Pietà Hotspurs. At a young age, he played for Torino before moving back to Malta in 2000 where he made his Premier League debut in season 2000/01. Except for a short spell on loan with Lija Athletic in the latter part of season 2002/03, Frendo played for the Hotspurs, leaving the club mid-way
through season 2004/05 where he joined Marsaxlokk. He made his national team debut on February 12, 2004 in the game against Moldova.
On the other hand, this will be Jamie Pace's second experience with Valletta. Thirty-one year old Jamie Pace joined Pietà H. in season 2001/02. He moved to Sliema in summer 2003 but in January 2004, he joined Valletta on loan. The following summer, he signed for Marsaxlokk where he has been playing for the past four years. Pace made his national team debut in February 2005 in the game against Norway.
Since last season, Valletta had already lost three players - namely Sebastian Monesterolo who joined AEK Larnaca in Cyprus, Heiner Backhaus who is attracting the interest of clubs in Hong Kong and Northern Ireland and Frank Temile who joined Dynamo Kyiv in Ukraine.
- Steve Abela is the new president of Sliema Wanderers. He replaces Robert Arrigo who decided not to submit his nomination after spending the last twelve years as club president.
The new committee was formed after the club's Annual General Meeting which was held on Thursday.
Abela had joined the Sliema committee last season, acting as team manager.
Mario Debono was elected as secretary, replacing John Bugeja.
The new committee is made up of:
Steve Abela – President, Tony Meli – Vice President, Nikki Dimech – Vice President & PRO, Mario Debono – Secretary, Edward Agius – Ass Secretary, Andrew Grech – Treasurer, Marc Migneco – Council Member & Ass Treasurer, Committee Members - Michael Bonello, Charles Borg, Edward Borg, Vincent Borg, Godfrey Pace, Mario Schembri, Emmanuel Spiteri.
The members present at the AGM have unanimously appointed Mr. Robert Arrigo as Honorary President of the club.
The club would also like to thank Robert Arrigo and John Bugeja for their commitment and service they have given to SWFC during the last years.
- The Sliema Wanderers FC Nursery is accepting applications from qualified coaches who are interested in forming part of the Nursery coaching staff for season 2008/2009.
Coaches who used to form part of the previous Nursery coaching staff must also apply.
A detailed C.V. has to be sent by not later than 20th June 2008 to:- Sliema Wanderers FC Nursery, Coaching Staff, National Pool Complex, Triq Tereza Spinelli, Gzira GZR 02 or email: info@sliemanursery.com
Wed 12
- Dr Michael Sciriha is the new president of First Division side Rabat Ajax following the club's Annual General Meeting.
Amadeo Zammit, who served as president in the past season, will occupy the post of vice-president while Mario Grima and Etienne Cachia were confirmed as Secretary and Assistant Secretary respectively. Brian Borg is the club's new Financial Secretary, replacing Paul Bugeja. Glen Joseph Micallef is the club' Public Relations Officer and will also serve as assistant Financial Secretary. Andrew Cachia is the Kit Manager job while Victor Sammut will be the person responsible for the club premises and the ground maintenance.
Meanwhile in a statement issued on Tuesday, the club stated that it was former president Amadeo Zammit to nominate Dr Michael Sciriha as the new president for the good of the club. Mr Zammit will be carrying out the same duties as before, putting the club's interests first and foremost.
Dr Michael Sciriha declared that he had offered Amadeo Zammit to occupy any post in the committee and that it was only if he had his full backing, he would serve as President.
Rabat Ajax will be playing in the BOV First Division next season after winning promotion from Division 2. After finishing on level points with San Gwann and Balzan Youths, the Magpies were promoted after beating Balzan Youths 3-0 in a promotion decider.
Tue 11
- Vittoriosa Stars FC is seeking licensed coaches for the Under-19 and Under-15 teams. The applicants must send a CV to vittoriosafc@hotmail.com or send an sms on 99011731.
The applicant must be an experienced and a motivated person who wants to experience truly "south" football passion. Very good conditions are included.
Mon 10
- Sliema Wanderers and Mgarr United claimed the Youth A and Youth B Knock-Outs respectively after winning the finals which were played on Friday at the Centenary Stadium.
In the Youth A Knock-Out, goals by John Nwoba and Miguel Ciantar gave Sliema Wanderers a 2-1 win over Hibernians. The Wanderers therefore claim the double after winning Section A.
On the road to the final, Sliema beat Pietà Hotspurs 2-1 in the quarter-finals and Mosta 4-1 after extra-time in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile Mgarr United beat St. Andrews 2-1 after extra-time in the final of the Youth B Knock-Out. Mgarr had earlier secured promotion to Section A after finishing as runners-up in Section B behind leaders Balzan Youths.
James Borg put Mgarr ahead early in the second half but with one minute to go, St. Andrews levelled the score thanks to a penalty. However in extra-time, it was Matthew Muscat who notched the winner for Mgarr.
- The Financial Director/PRO of Msida St. Joseph Football Club Alan Abela-Wadge would like to announce that the Annual General Meeting is going to be held next Sunday 15th June 2008 starting at 9am at our club house in Church Street Msida.
Those who are interested in submiting their application to form part of the committee must do this prior to next Friday 13th June at 6.00pm. Application can be picked up from the club house or from the Mater Dei Training Grounds.
- Mosta FC shall be holding its Annual General Meeting on Sunday 15th June at 10:00 at the club premises at Eucharistic Congress Road, Mosta.
Items on the agenda include the approval of the administrative report and the financial report, the election of president, secretary and treasurer for seasons 2008/09, 2009/10 and 2010/11 and the election of the ordinary members of the executive committee for season 2008/09.
Mosta FC Supporters are encouraged to pay up their Membership fee for season 2008-09. Enrollment costs EUR 12 for men and over-16s while ladies pay EUR 5.
Mosta FC 2008-09 ambitions and ground infrastructure developments will be definitely be on latter part of the meeting's agenda.
- The Annual General Meeting of St. George's F.C. will be held on Friday 16th June 2008 from 19:00 onwards at the club's premises.
The agenda includes the approval of the administrative and financial reports, and the election of the new committee for the coming season.
Members are encouraged to attend and participate in this important meeting. Those who have paid their annual membership are eligible to vote.
Those interested in forming part of the committee for the coming season should fill the application form and send it to the president or secretary by not later than June 11th.
- San Gwann FC will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Sunday 15 June at 10:00 at the San Gwann Football Club.
On the agenda is the approval of minutes, administrative and financial report and the election for a new committee.
All members are urged to attend.
- Zebbug Rangers F.C will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Sunday 15th June at 9.30 at the Zebbug Rangers Football Club.
Among the items on the agenda is the approval of the administrative and
financial reports and the election for the season 2008/09.
Nominations for the committee will be received up to Wednesday 11th June 2008.
- The Annual General Meeting of Sta. Venera Lightnings F.C. will be held on Sunday 15th June 2008 from 10:00 onwards at the club's premises.
Among the items on the Agenda is the approval of the administrative and financial reports and the election for the committee for next season.
All paid members are encouraged to attend.
Sun 9
- Competitions organised by the Youth Football Association came to an end on Sunday with the finals of the two knock-outs - the Under-14 Knock-Out and the Under-16 Knock-Out - both sponsored by the Good Causes Fund.
Valletta won the Under-16 Knock-Out after beating Pietà Hotspurs 2-0. On the other hand, Paola Hibs claimed the Under-14 Knock-Out, defeating Floriana 4-1.
Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment Tonio Fenech presented the trophies after the finals.
Valletta had also won the APS Bank Under-16 League Section A, ahead of Sliema Wanderers and Paola Hibs. Rabat Depiro won Section B and were therefore promoted to Section A. St. Patrick and Naxxar Lions were also promoted to Section A. Pembroke Athleta won Section C after defeating Attard 2-0 in a championship decider. Both were promoted to Section B together with Lija-Iklin.
In the Under-14 APS Bank League, Paola Hibs claimed the title ahead of Pietà Hotspurs and Floriana. St. Andrews were promoted to Section A as winners of Section B. St. Patrick and Mosta were also promoted to Section A. Sirens, Marsa and Gozo were promoted to Section B after winning Sections C1, C2 and C3 respectively.
- The 5-a-side Indoor Soccer Tournament organised by SK Victoria Wanderers will kick-off on July 7th.
This is by far the biggest 5 a-side tournament in Gozo with over two hundred Gozitan footballers taking part in it.
Applications can be collected from Bargate Stationery in Victoria (opposite Bellusa Tyres) or from the Gozo Sports Complex, the place that will stage this annual competition.
This year's competition will have some changes. Whereas the first round, that is the group stage, will remain the same as in previous tournaments, there will be changes in the second round. Instead of the usual knock out there will be two. One of the knock-outs will be for the first two teams of each group and these will be the 1st Division Knock-Out while the third and forth team will have another knock-out and this will be the 2nd Division Knock Out.
The organizing committee is making these changes in order for every team to have a realistic chance of winning - be it money, trophies or medals.
There will be €600 cash prices, 10 trophies and 40 medals to be won. Applications are to be handed back to the mentioned stationery by not later than Friday 4th of July. One can find all the relevant information when one collects the application.
For more information on the tournament please visit http://www.skvw.org
- Futsal competitions came to an end on May 29 with the First and Second Division Knock-Out competition final.
The match proved to be a good spectacle of high quality futsal and was followed by a considerable amount of local futsal enthusiasts. It is evident that this sport is establishing itself well with local youngsters and the record entries of teams participating in this years MFA Futsal Leagues, ranging from first to fourth divisions, is a good encouragement.
The Final was played between two superior teams in this year’s first division, Aluserv Futsal and European Pilot Academy, the latter also finishing runner’s up in the Championship play-offs last month, after MFA awarded the Championship to Scandals with 7 minutes to go, after a number of incidents by supporters on the terraces.
This time, they faced Aluserv Futsal, who after finishing top of the league, were unlucky to be knocked off the Championship play-offs at semi-final stage. Aluserv boast a number of records this year, namely best goal difference, best away win and best home win. It is also interesting to note that this was the first year for Aluserv playing in first division after being promoted from second division last season.
Aluserv started off well, and were leading 2-0 half way through the first half, however European Pilot Academy managed to level the score with 2 swift counter-attacks. Aluserv regained confidence and secured a 2-goal lead by half time.
Second half offered a couple of spectacular moves and goals from both teams, but Aluserv gained confidence as time passed and scored 4 goals in a row to ensure a more comfortable scoreline. European Pilot Academy insisted in attacking, pushing Aluserv to a defensive mode, and pulling back 3 goals, but solid defending and spectacular goalkeeping kept them at bay.
The game ended 8-5, Aluserv emerging winners, and thus crowning their very first season in First Division snatching one of the major honours in Futsal. MFA vice-president Perit Ludovico Micallef presented the Knock-Out Cup to captain Ilija Milivojsa at the end of the game, whilst Mr. Mark Vassallo presented a memento to all players on behalf of Aluserv Limited, main sponsors of Aluserv Futsal.
Club President Mr. George Xuereb, whilst thanking Club Management, Coach Simone Montagno and Players, commented that the team has already registered a number of key players in its bid to be amongst the top teams in next year’s season.
- Futsal Second Division side Pentagon Properties B.F.C. held their Promotion Celebration Dinner at a restaurant in Bugibba after recently having been proclaimed Second Division Champions.
Section A winners Pentagon Properties BFC defeated Section B winners Clarion F.C. in a tightly fought match which ended on penalties with the score of 8-7, after extra time had ended on the score of 4-4.
In a statement, the team thanked their dedicated coach Kevin Mifsud, their hard working committee, their determined and talented players, as well as their very supportive main sponsor and secondary sponsors.
Sat 7
- Nigerian striker Frank Temile won the three awards he was nominated for in the seventh edition of the Melita Digital Malta Football Awards which was held at the Corinthia Palace Attard on Friday. Temile was voted Best Striker, Most Promising Youngster and Best Foreign Player.
As expected, champions Valletta claimed the largest number of awards. Andrew Hogg was voted Best Goalkeeper, Gilbert Agius was voted Best Local Player and Paul Zammit was voted Best Coach.
The award for the Best Defender went to Birkirkara defender Ronni Hartvig while Marsaxlokk's Kevin Sammut was voted Best Midfielder.
Stefan Sultana won the award for the Best Veteran Player (aged 36 and over) while the goal by Sliema Wanderers striker Ivan Woods in the game against Marsaxlokk on April 26 was voted the Best Goal of the Season.
Joseph Farrugia (Qormi) and Elton Vella (Mosta) were the joint-winners of the Best First Division Player while Melita striker Julian Galea claimed the award for the Best Second Division Player. Nora Agliano of Birkirkara was voted Best Female Player. Errol Grima (Sannat Lions) won the Best Onvol GFA First Division Player award while Predrag Babic (Scandals) wont he award for the Best Futsal First Division Player.
The Coke Zero Best Support Award, sponsored by the General Soft Drinks, went to Hamrun Spartans.
Two special awards for the career were presented to Tony Bezzina and Benny Pace. Tony Bezzina celebrates the thirtieth anniversary as president of Hibernians while Benny Pace has a long journalistic career spanning over forty years besides spending several years as an official with Valletta FC.
A memento was presented to the six Maltese players who are currently playing abroad, namely Michael Mifsud - Coventry, Andre Schembri - Eintracht Braunschweig, Justin Haber - Haidari, Daniel Bogdanovic - Cisco Roma, Luke Dimech - Macclesfield, Andrei Agius - Igea Virtus and Luke Woods - Ware FC.
Balzan Youths midfielder Gilbert Scerri was presented with an award after winning the Crossbar Challenge - a competition which was held during the programme Line Up on E22.
The winners in the various categories were therefore:
Best Goalkeeper Andrew Hogg (Valletta)
Best Defender Ronnie Hartvig (Birkirkara)
Best Midfielder Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk)
Best Forward Frank Temile (Valletta)
Best Coach Paul Zammit (Valletta)
Most Promising Youngster Frank Temile (Valletta)
Best Local Player Gilbert Agius (Valletta)
Best Foreign Player Frank Temile (Valletta)
Best Female Player Eleonora Agliano (Birkirkara)
Best Veteran Player Stefan Sultana (Hamrun S.)
Best Goal Ivan Woods (Sliema W. vs Marsaxlokk 26/04/2008)
Best Futsal First Division Player Predrag Babic (Scandals FC)
Best Onvol GFA First Division Player Errol Grima (Sannat L.)
Best First Division Player Joseph Farrugia (Qormi) and Elton Vella (Mosta)
Best Second Division Player Julian Galea (Melita)
Special Awards for Career Tony Bezzina and Benny Pace
Coke Zero Best Support Award Hamrun Spartans
A repeat of the gala event will be screened on E22 on Saturday 7th June.
The 7th Edition of the Melita Digital Malta Football Awards was hosted by sports journalist Catherine Xuereb and actor Mario Micallef. The show included a performance by international football free-styler Soufiane Touzani, who was brought to Malta thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority.
The Malta Football Awards is an annual event organised by Events Services. This year the event was supported by Corinthia Palace Attard, Melita Digital, BWIN, Coke Zero, Strand Electronics, Sterling Jewellers, Eurosport, MFCC, ADT, Malta Tourism Authority, Kunsill Malti ghall-Isport, Bank of Valletta, ETC, Carmelo Abela Marketing, Titan, Hamilton Travel, Aristocrat, Sports Experience Trophies and John's Garage.
- The new club house of the Paola Hibs Youth Nursery was inaugurated on Saturday by Youth FA president Fr Hilary Tagliaferro.
Paola Hibs Football Nursery Chairman Norman Buckle, Hibernians Football Club president Tony Bezzina, Parliamentary Secretary for Revenues and Land Dr Jason Azzopardi, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport Clyde Puli and Fr Hilary delivered short speeches on this occasion before a commemorative plaque was unveiled.
Also present for the inauguration were the Mayor of Paola, Members of Parliament and officials from the Malta Football Association and the Youth Football Association.
The club house is located at Ghajn Dwieli, next to the nursery's training grounds. Around three hundred young players attend the Paola Hibs Football Nursery. The Hibernians senior team is reaping the fruit of the nursery's work as most of the players are in fact products of the Paola Hibs nursery.
- Naxxar Motors Futsal, formerly known as Net Stars, will be taking part in the Valdichienti Futsal Cup which will be played in Morrovalle, Ancona between the 12th and the 15th June.
Twenty-five teams from all over the world are due to participate in this tournament. The team already took part in the Valdichienti Futsal Cup in 2006 as Net Stars and they did quite well as they reached the quarter-finals after qualifying from a group together with two Italian teams and others from Germany, England and Kenya and beating another Italian team in the second round. In the quarter-finals, the squad was reduced to just five players as all the others, including the coach, were sent off in the previous game.
On leaving a good impression, the organisers of the Valdichienti Futsal Cup decided to invite them to take part once again.
In 2007, Net Stars President Christian Micallef decided to transfer the team to Robert Magro and Jesmond Caruana after not having enough time to be in charge of the team. The team changed the name to Naxxar Motors due to its main sponsor.
After being relegated at the end of last season, Naxxar Motors played in Division 2 Section A this season. However they managed to win promotion through the play-offs.
The Naxxar Motors team is made up of coach Julian Briffa, assistant coach Jeremy Dalli and players Gaetano Mallia, Jesmond Caruana, Robert Magro (captain), Darren Agius, Cain Agius, Alex Falzon and Elton Catania. The team leaves Malta on Tuesday.
- Futsal First Division champions Scandals Futsal will be playing a friendly match against an Albanian team - Antena Nord on Tuesday June 10th at the Corradino Pavilion at 20:00.
Antena Nord, who hail from the city of Shkoder, are currently in Malta for a training camp. They finished as runner-up in the First Division Championship Play-Offs in Albania, losing to Tirana Tirane in the final. Antena Nord have a number of national team players in their squad.
The game will be controlled by two MFA referees and also a time keeper.
- Zebbug Rangers Youth Nursery is receiving applications from qualified coaches willing to form part of the nursery's coaching staff for season 2008/09.
Those interested should send a detailed CV to johncamilleri67@yahoo.com or 4 St. Philip Square, Zebbug.
Closing date is June 15th.
Fri 6
- Young Valletta striker Frank Temile will be joining Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kyiv.
After an excellent season with the Citizens, the Nigerian striker, who will be just eighteen years old next month, was attracting the interest of a number of clubs in Germany following contacts established by his agent Henry Ekezie.
Temile arrived in Malta a couple of years ago and started training with the Valletta youths, occasionally joining the senior squad for training sessions. In summer, Valletta coach Paul Zammit decided to have faith in Temile, signing him as the third foreigner.
After overcoming hurdles related to the obtaining of the international transfer certificate due to the fact that he was still seventeen, Frank Temile finally made his debut for the Citizens in October in the game against Sliema.
With Valletta, he scored ten goals in twenty matches.
Since the independence of Ukraine in 1992, Dynamo Kyiv won the title 12 times. They have been taking part in the UEFA Champions League constantly since 1994, except for 1997 when they played in the UEFA Cup. This year they finished second behind champions Shakhtar Donetsk.
- Malta Under-21 midfielder Edmond Agius is the first signing for champions Valletta after agreeing a five-year contract.
Agius joins the Citizens from Hibernians with whom he made his Premier League debut in season 2003/04.
Valletta are working hard to strengthen the squad following the departure of two players and the possible departure of others.
Argentine striker Sebastian Monesterolo moved to AEK Larnaca in Cyprus while German midfielder is considering a couple of offers but will definitely play in another country. Nigerian striker Frank Temile has just returned to Malta after spending ten days in Germany where he was attracting interest from a number of clubs. This means that next season, Valletta will have at least two new foreign players.
Goalkeeper Andrew Hogg also left Malta on Thursday where he went for a trial with an unnamed club.
On the other hand, one of the main targets for Valletta is Malta international defender Luke Dimech who was released by League Two side Macclesfield last month. Dimech won the Premier League title with Marsaxlokk last season.
Another two targets for Valletta are Marsaxlokk duo Jamie Pace and Cleavon Frendo.
Thu 5
- The annual event of the Malta Football Awards will be held on Friday night at the Corinthia Palace Attard at 20:30. Events Services, the producers of this annual event have organized six editions so far and this year's is the 7th edition whereby the awards are given the name of Melita Digital Malta Football Awards.
A total of 19 awards will be presented to various players coming from the Premier League, First Division, Futsal, Gozo, Women's League and for the first time from the Second Division.
The finalists for the various categories are:
Best Goalkeeper
Omar Borg (Birkirkara), Reuben Debono (Marsaxlokk), Andrew Hogg (Valletta)
Best Defender
Ronnie Hartvig (Birkirkara), Josef Mifsud (Valletta), Brian Said (Sliema)
Best Midfielder
Gilbert Agius (Valletta), David Camilleri (Valletta), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk)
Best Forward
Sebastian Monesterolo (Valletta), Marcelo Pereira (Mqabba), Frank Temile (Valletta)
Best Coach
John Buttigieg (Birkirkara), Brian Talbot (Marsaxlokk), Paul Zammit (Valletta)
Most Promising Youngster
Steve Bezzina (Valletta), Ryan Fenech (Hamrun), Frank Temile (Valletta)
Best Local Player
Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Kevin Sammut (Sliema).
Best Foreign Player
Marcelo Pereira (Mqabba), Njongo Priso Doding (Msida SJ), Frank Temile (Valletta)
Best Female Player
Eleonora Agliano (Birkirkara), Catherine Camilleri (Birkirkara), Sharon Costantino (Melita)
Best Veteran Player
Darko Krsteski (Floriana), Sean Sullivan (Hamrun S.), Stefan Sultana (Hamrun S.)
Best Goal
Michael Mifsud (Malta vs Liechtenstein 26/03/2008), Kevin Sammut (Marsaxlokk vs Floriana 21/04/2008), Ivan Woods (Sliema W. vs Marsaxlokk 26/04/2008)
Best Futsal First Division Player
Zeljko Anicic (Jeepers FC), Predrag Babic (Scandals FC), Noel Bray (Southenders FC)
Best Onvol GFA First Division Player
Chris Camilleri (Nadur Y.), Daniel Farrugia (Victoria H.), Errol Grima (Sannat L.)
Best First Division Player
Anthony Ewurum (Senglea A.), Joseph Farrugia (Qormi), Elton Vella (Mosta)
Best Second Division Player
Kurt Coleiro (Balzan Y.), Julian Galea (Melita), Adam Smeir (Rabat A.)
This year, thanks to General Soft Drinks Co. Ltd, Events Services is also awarding The Best Support Award whereby football supporters had the opportunity to upload videos and photos on www.cokezero.com.mt The SMS voting is still open for televiewers to keep on sending the name of the club who had the best support this season on 50614914. The winning club will receive 2500 euro to enhance his support next season. The SMS voting will be closed fifteen minutes from the end of the event which will be broadcast LIVE on Melita Sports and the Weather & Info Channel, with a repeat on Saturday 7th June on E22.
The 7th Edition of the Melita Digital Malta Football Awards will be hosted for the second consecutive year by sports journalist Catherine Xuereb and actor Mario Micallef. During the show, also thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority, there will be the international football free-styler Soufiane Touzani who will perform live in front of the audience and show his superb football skills.
Events Services would like to thank the following sponsors for their support during this year's edition: Corinthia Palace Attard, Melita Digital, BWIN, Coke Zero, Strand Electronics, Sterling Jewellers, Eurosport, MFCC, ADT, Malta Tourism Authority, Kunsill Malti ghall-Isport, Bank of Valletta, ETC, Carmelo Abela Marketing, Titan, Hamilton Travel, Aristocrat, Sports Experience Trophies and John's Garage. For more information www.maltafootball.com/awards and www.eventsservices.tv
- Football lovers are in for a treat over the coming weekend, with Dutch football free-styler Soufiane 2Zani putting on three performances in Valletta, Sliema and Bugibba.
2Zani - Soufiane Touzani by birth - was born in Rotterdam. As a small kid, he was constantly trying to figure out new tricks and was learning from many local heroes. Touzani player with HFC Harlem and Feyenoord but now plays futsal in the Netherlands together with his freestyle partner Ratinho. After a serious back surgery he is only concentrating on freestyle and set aside field football. Touzani has come with a new dimension of AIR Freestyle, a new style of football that many youngsters practice today all over the world.
He created his own move called the Touzani Around the World. In a short period, he received a lot of respect and is now one of the best freestylers in the world. From street kid, he became a character in FIFA STREET 2 and participated in Nike commercials. All those who love the art of ball handling will be treated to a 45-minute session of amazing ball control, creativity and style, which have attracted and mesmerised spectators as far flung as India.
Young 2Zani’s talent can be seen for free next Friday 6th in Great Siege, Valletta at 12.30, Saturday 7th at Ghar id-Dud, Sliema at 18.30 and on Sunday 8th in Bugibba Square at 11.30. On Friday 6th, he will be one of the guests in the gala event of the Melita Digital Malta Football Awards.
This event is organised by the Malta Tourism Authority in collaboration with Events Services.
Wed 4
- Despite a 5-1 defeat to Austria last Friday, Malta climbed one place in the June edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking. Malta is now 134th.
Among the other European countries, Malta is ranked 48th. Just ahead of Malta is Estonia (121, down 6), Kazakhstan (125, down 3), Liechtenstein (131, down 1) and Azerbaijan (133, up 4). Lying behind Malta is Montenegro (142, up 8), Luxembourg (153, up 4), Andorra (184, down 3), Faroe Islands (193, up 1) and San Marino (199).
Malta now plays Estonia in a friendly match on August 20.
- Fgura United will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Sunday 8th June at 09:30 at the club premises in Triq San Tumas.
Among the items on the agenda is the approval of the administrative and financial reports and the election for the committee for season 2008/09.
All paid members are encouraged to attend.
- The Annual General Meeting of Sirens FC will be held on Monday 9th June at the Sirens Football Ground at 19:00.
Nominations for the committee will be received up to Thursday 5th June at 8.00pm. Forms are available through Mr. Lino Camilleri at the club.
Among the items on the agenda is the approval of the administrative report and the financial report and the election of the committee members for the coming season. In the event that there are not enough nominations, the chairman would have the authority to ask for nominations from eligible voters who may be present at the AGM.
Tue 3
- Sponsorship agreements covering the National League and main knock-out competitions organised by the Malta Football Association will be renewed next month following discussions with the association's main sponsors - Bank of Valletta and Maltco Lotteries.
With the present agreements coming to an end this season, the association started discussions with the two companies over the past weeks and in both cases, an agreement was reached over the renewal of the sponsorship agreement for another three years.
The Bank of Valletta sponsorship covers the National League - the Premier League, First Division League, Second Division League and the Third Division League - and the Super Cup.
The previous agreement with Maltco Lotteries, on the other hand, covered the FA Trophy and the Second and Third Division Knock-Out which were branded U*BET FA Trophy and quick-Keno Second & Third Division Knock-Out. The new agreement with Maltco Lotteries will be covering the First Division Knock-Out as well.
Meanwhile the Council of the Malta Football Association approved the list of competitions for next season. Competitions will be the same as last season with the addition of the Women's Second Division League.
The complete list of competitions is therefore: National League - Premier League, First Division League, Second Division League and Third Division League; FA Trophy; Super Cup; Euro Challenge Cup; First Division Knock-Out Competition; Second & Third Division Knock-Out Competition; Youth League - Section A, Section B, Section C and Section D; Youth Knock-Out Competitions - Youth A Knock-Out (for Section A) and Youth B Knock-Out for Sections B, C and D); Women's First Division League; Women's Second Division League; Women's Knock-Out; Futsal League and Futsal Knock-Out.
Tue 3
- Banif Bank (Malta) will be sponsoring the national team for the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Portugal in programme on September 6th at the National Stadium. This was revealed during a press conference which was held at the Centenary Hall, Ta' Qali on Tuesday.
MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud said that next season, national teams will be involved in seven different competitions for national representative teams. But obviously the most important competition is the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Malta was drawn in a group together with two of the finalists in the EURO 2008 - Portugal and Sweden - and three other teams namely Denmark, Hungary and Albania.
The first game is against Portugal - a team which, according to the MFA president, has high hopes in these championships after losing the final to Greece four years ago.
"We ware playing against some of the top teams in Europe and although the group is very difficult, we will be trying to get good results, besides good performances. We are looking forward towards obtaining points from the group as we did in the EURO 2008 qualifiers," said Dr Mifsud.
The MFA president said the association has been working together with Banif Bank (Malta) in order to reach a sponsorship agreement over this game.
Banif Bank (Malta) was set up earlier this year.
Chairman Mr Joe Sammut said that as a Maltese bank with local shareholding, Banif Bank is committed to support the local community in cultural, environmental and sporting events such as this game between Malta and Portugal. The affiliations that the bank has with Portugal made it even more natural for Banif Bank to participate in such an important activity.
"We feel that the game between Malta and Portugal gives us a unique opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the two countries," said Mr Sammut.
Banif Bank is sure the Portuguese players will receive a warm welcome in Malta and will be of attraction to the local sporting public since some of Portugal's top talents are key players in English and Italian teams.
"Hopefully Malta will play a good game and the sporting public attends and watches an entertaining game," concluded Mr Sammut.
MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud said that the association is working on three projects for the National stadium which will be completed in the next month or two. The first one is to replace the seats at the North and South Stands, the second is to cover the track of the stadium with artificial turf and the third is the upgrading of the dressing rooms.
Dr Mifsud said this was part of the constant upgrading of the association's facilities. He concluded that made possible thanks to such sponsorships.
- The Premier League 2008/09 will kick-off on August 23 and will come to an end on May 24. This was announced during a meeting of the Council of the Malta Football Association which was held on Tuesday.
The football season will get underway with the Euro Challenge Cup which will be played on July 7, 9 and 11. BOV Premier League champions Valletta, runners-up Marsaxlokk and U*BET FA Trophy winners Birkirkara will be taking part.
The Super Cup, on the other hand, will be played on August 8. Valletta take on Birkirkara in the Super Cup.
The league kicks-off on August 23, three days after the national team friendly match against Estonia. Following the first two complete programmes of matches, there will be a short break due to the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Portugal at Ta' Qali and Albania in Tirana on September 6 and 10 respectively.
There will be another four complete programmes of matches between September 13 and October 5 before another two World Cup qualifiers against Denmark and Hungary on October 11 and 15.
A programme of four matches will be played on October 18 and 19 and in the following three weekends, the FA Trophy takes centre stage with matches from the first and second rounds. In fact as from this season, the first two rounds will be played on consecutive weekends.
The Premier League resumes on November 15. Except for a break due to the festive season on December 27/28, there will be four matches each weekend until February 1.
The quarter-finals of the FA Trophy will be played on February 6 and 7 and the national team plays Albania on February 11.
The first phase of the Premier League comes to an end on March 2 while the semi-finals of the FA Trophy will be played the following weekend - March 7 and 8.
The Premier League second phase gets underway on March 14 with the last matches from the Relegation Pool being played in the first weekend of May and the last game from the Championship Pool will be played on May 24.
The final of the FA Trophy will be played on May 30.
The national team could play a friendly match on June 6 before the World Cup qualifier against Sweden on June 6.
Once again the Premier League and the FA Trophy will be sponsored by Bank of Valletta and Maltco Lotteries respectively as sponsorship agreements with the two companies will be renewed next month.
- The First Division League 2008/09 will kick-off on November 8 as the first round of the First Division Knock-Out and the first two rounds of the FA Trophy will be played in September and October.
As from next season, the First Division Knock-Out will have a new format with the ten teams being divided into two groups of five teams and each group will be played on a one-round league basis. The first matches from this competition will be played on September 13.
Matches from the first round of the FA Trophy will be played on October 18, 19, 25 and 26. The second round of the competition will be played on November 1 and 2.
After the league kicks-off on November 8, matches will be played every weekend without interruption except for February 6 and 7 for the FA Trophy quarter-finals. The league comes to an end on May 17.
The First Division Knock-Out semi-finals will be played on May 23 and the final will be played on May 29.
Matches will be played at the Victor Tedesco Stadium and the Hibs Ground. Works on the installation of artificial turf at the Victor Tedesco Stadium is expected to start in the coming days and should be completed in five weeks.
The First Division League and the FA Trophy will be sponsored by Bank of Valletta and Maltco Lotteries respectively as sponsorship agreements with the two companies will be renewed next month. However as from next season, the agreement with Maltco Lotteries will be covering the First Division Knock-Out as well.
- Kirkop United and Mtarfa were the only teams to apply to take part in the Third Division League. Their application was approved and therefore once again there will be nineteen teams divided into a section of ten teams and another of nine teams.
Mtarfa and Kirkop had to apply once again after finishing at the bottom of Sections A and B respectively.
Meanwhile the first round of the Second & Third Division Knock-Out will be played between September 4 and 21.
The Second Division League will kick-off on September 27 while the Third Division League gets underway on September 26.
All matches in Division 2 will be played at the Centenary Stadium except for Gozo FC's home matches which will be played at the Gozo Stadium.
The Second Division League comes to an end on May 10. The Third Division League also comes to an end on May 10 but the play-offs will be played between May 17 and 24.
The quarter-finals of the Second & Third Division Knock-Out will be played on December 27 and 28 while the semi-finals are scheduled for April 11. The final is programmed for May 30.
Once again the Second Division and Third Division leagues and the Second & Third Division Knock-Out will be sponsored by Bank of Valletta and Maltco Lotteries respectively as sponsorship agreements with the two companies will be renewed next month.
- Paola Stars Futsal Club is currently holding the PSFC Football Tournament - Siminu Challenge Cup.
Taking part are six futsal teams, namely Paola Stars Futsal Club, Luxol Amazon Pago, Scandals Futsal, Pentagon Properties Babylonia FC, Zurrieq FC and Swing Kids FC.
The tournament is being held between June 2nd and June 20th. The presentation to the winners and all participating teams will take place after the final game on June 20th.
The winners will be presented with the Siminu Challenge Cup which will be retained for one year, another trophy for the team and a trophy for each player and the three officials. The runners-up will be presented with a trophy and others for the players and officials. The top-scorer will also be presented with a trophy.
Trophies will be presented to the other four teams as well.
- Following a successful tournament last year, Zurrieq FC Futsal will be organising another 5-a-side tournament at the Zurrieq Primary School B on the newly-installed artificial turf pitch between Friday 1st and Sunday 3rd August. The tournament is based on a marathon with games starting on Friday night and continuing until Sunday night.
The closing date for applications is June 30th. These are available by contacting any of the following committee members: Frankie 79647522, Saviour 99867791, Roderick 99486315.
The fee is €120 for each team. Trophies will be presented to each player in the two teams placing first and second.
Mon 2
- Malta international striker Michael Mifsud is attracting the interest of Sunderland, Rangers and Birmingham according to report in The People on Sunday.
The newspaper says the player, who is rated £2million, is set to leave Championship side Coventry with the three clubs above all interested in securing his services.
Coventry managed to avoid relegation by just one point. Mifsud had an excellent start to the season, scoring nine goals in the first fifteen matches between August and December. But over the next four months, he struggled to find the way to the net, scoring just one in the final league game.
In the early part of the season, Michael Mifsud also scored two goals against Blackburn and another one against Milwall in the FA Cup and two braces against Carlisle and Man Utd in the Carling Cup.
- Aluserv ended the season on a positive note as they defeated European Pilot Academy 8-5 in the final to claim the Futsal First and Second Division Knock-Out.
To reach the final, Aluserv defeated Zurrieq FC 5-1, Pentagon Properties BFC 7-4 and Jeepers FC 9-6.
It was a most positive season for Aluserv who were promoted from the Second Division last year as champions. They ended the regular season in the First Division on top of the table, on level points with European Pilot Academy. However in the semi-finals of the play-offs, they were eliminated by Scandals FC who went on to win the championship.
European Pilot Academy once again finished as runners-up after ending as losing finalists in the Futsal First Division Championship Play-Offs.
The Futsal First and Second Division Knock-Out final brought to an end the futsal season.
The main honour - that of the First Division Championship - went to Scandals Futsal who won the title after being awarded a 2-0 win over European Pilot Academy after the final was abandoned due to incidents caused by a few Serbian fans. Scandals were leading 6-4 when the match was abandoned by the referees.
Pentagon Properties BFC were promoted to Division 1 as Second Division champions after beating Clarion FC on penalties in the championship decider.
Los Street Boyz, Hacienda Bar and Tal-Werqa SG were promoted from the Third Division as the three section winners while River Plate will join them in Division 2 after winning the Promotion Play-Offs.
The three section winners in the Fourth Division were Mosta FC, Point Break Bobs and Riviera FC. These won promotion to Division 3. Qormi won the Promotion Play-Offs.
Fourth Division side Beta Pharma won the Third and Fourth Division Knock-Out after beating Third Division side St. Helen Band Club 4-2 in the final.
Sun 1
- First Division Knock-Out Vittoriosa S. vs Dingli S. 1-3
- Women's Knock-Out Birkirkara vs Sliema R. 5-0
- Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery will be organising a summer football school for boys and girls born between 2003 and 1996.
Sessions will be held at the Hamrun five-a-side artificial turf pitch and will be conducted by Marco Grech, who holds a UEFA 'B' coaching licence. This will be a good opportunity for young footballers who would like to register with the Hamrun nursery to familiarize with the Hamrun nursery environment ahead of new season 2008/2009.
Application forms may be downloaded from the Hamrun nursery website www.hamrunnursery.com or may be picked up from the nursery premises at Alexander Street.
- Disappointment was evident on the faces of national coach Dusan Fitzel and the players on Friday night as Malta suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Austria at the UPC Arena in Graz. Considering the fine performances in recent outings by the national team and the far from impressive displays by Austria over the past months, few expected such a heavy defeat for the Maltese.
However with just over a week to go for the EURO 2008 final tournament, Austria were determined to make sure of obtaining a much-sought win in this friendly which would act as a morale-booster ahead of the games against Croatia, Poland and Germany.
Right from kick-off, the Austrians went all out in search of early goals scoring twice in the first eleven minutes. Malta pulled one back towards the end of the first half thanks to Michael Mifsud. However the hosts scored another three goals for a most comfortable win.
Speaking after the game, Dusan Fitzel said he did not expect such a result although he was aware of the difference between the two teams due to the fact that the Austrian players are now in the peak of their preparation ahead of the EURO 2008.
"When we suffer an early goal, we find it difficult to make a comeback. We committed several tactical mistakes and I am upset the players did not follow my instructions. We cannot do well when we commit silly mistakes," said Fitzel.
He complained that some of the goals could have been avoided with the players once again seeming unable to concentrate fully in set-pieces. In fact, Malta suffered three of the goals from set-pieces.
The Malta coach said he is not worried that such defeat will affect the team's preparation ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
"Sometimes it's good to suffer a blow. Now we start our holidays but when we resume our training, the players know they will have to work harder to improve," he said.
Fitzel praised younger players like Jonathan Caruana and Ryan Fenech, saying they are on the right track.
On the other hand, the Malta coach criticised others, especially Udo Nwoko.
"I am absolutely disappointed with Udo. If he continues on this way, he is out of the squad. As a coach, I need to go abroad to see players in action," said Fitzel.
The national coach complained that the format of the Premier League - with a Championship and Relegation Pool - does not help the national team.
He said that even the coaches of Premier and First Division clubs agree with him but clubs' officials seem to have other thoughts.
"In my opinion, the best way to play the league is to have 10 teams playing on three rounds," concluded Fitzel.