April 2009
Thu 30
- The Council of the Malta Football Association voted in favour of a motion which asked for the final two BOV Premier League Relegation Pool matches to be played at the same time.
The vote was taken following a heated argument during which the council members of Msida St. Joseph and Tarxien Rainbows - the two clubs who had written to the association regarding this matter - argued in favour of holding the two matches at the same time and the council members of Qormi and Hamrun Spartans argued that the two matches should be played as scheduled.
Msida St. Joseph vs Tarxien Rainbows was due to be played on Saturday while Hamrun Spartans vs Qormi was scheduled for Sunday. Now the two matches will be played on Sunday at 15:00 with the Msida-Tarxien game being shifted to the Hibernians Ground.
The Competition Rules of the Malta Football Association state that
"In the case of competitions for the first team of a Club and which are played on a league basis, the sequence principle shall be compulsory only during the last three matches of each team in the competition concerned and this unless the Council for a serious and just reason decides otherwise."
The current situation in the Relegation Pool, where just two points separate the four teams, was deemed "a serious and just reason" to allow a motion to be presented in this regard.
- Marsaxlokk midfielder Peter Pullicino was banned for one match by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner on Thursday.
Also suspended for one match were: Nicky Vassallo (Marsa) in Division 2, Karl Vella Petroni (Gharghur), Melvin Agius (Kalkara), Roderick Sammut (Mtarfa) and Stefan Cauchi (Sta. Lucia) in Division 3, Edward Bugeja (Siggiewi), Alexie Saliba and Charlo Mamo (Zurrieq) in the Youth League. Sta. Venera U-19 kit-manager Johann Vella was suspended for two matches.
Wed 29
- The finals of the Secondary Schools Futsal Festival organised by the Malta Football Association in conjunction with the Sports Promotion Unit (SPU) within the Secretariat of Youth and Sport in the Ministry of Education and through the Kunsill Malti ghall-Isport (KMS) were held on Tuesday 28th April at the well-laid out Centenary Stadium, Ta’Qali, which was divided into four pitches, three for boys and the other for girls.
St Margaret College - Verdala Boys Junior Lyceum won the Boys’ Section, followed by St Theresa College - St Venera Boys Secondary School in second place and St Benedict College - St Benedict Boys Secondary School in third. The Fair Play award went to St Nicholas College - Mtarfa Boys Secondary School.
Participating Boys Schools/Colleges were: St. Venera BSS, Naxxar BSS, Paola BSS, Hamrun BJL, Handaq BJL, St. Benedict, Mtarfa BSS, Verdala BJL.
In the Girls’ Section, the winners were Maria Assumpta - Hamrun Girls Secondary School, with Carlo Diacono School - Zejtun Girls Junior Lyceum finishing runners-up and Erin Seraccino Inglott School - Cospicua
Girls Secondary School in third position. The last mentioned school were also awarded the Fair Play prize, while the day’s Best Support Award went to Maria Assumpta (Hamrun GSS).
Participating Girls Schools/Colleges were: Zejtun GJL (Carlo Diacono), Cospicua GSS (Erin Serracino Inglott), Hamrun GSS (Maria Assumpta).
Present for the event were Dusan Fitzel, Malta national team coach and MFA Technical Director, and Michal Striz, the Futsal national team coach, who stressed on the importance of Futsal and said that he would
like to see it grow even more in Malta.
Also present throughout the Festival was Mark Falzon, the Head of Youth Development of the MFA, who said that he was very impressed with the organisation of the event which was the result of hard work put in by
the joint efforts of everyone involved.
The Hon. Clyde Puli, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport, MFA President,Dr Joe Mifsud, and Vice-President, Ludovico Micallef, presented the awards to all winners. These prizes consisted of football
equipment such as balls and MFA banners for the occasion. In the case of 1st place and Fairplay, the prize also included a National Team shirt signed by the Malta players.
In a closing address the Hon Clyde Puli expressed his satisfaction at the successful conclusion of the Festival and emphasised the importance of youths keeping active through participation in several events made
possible by the availability of the many sports facilities around our country.
Dr Mifsud thanked all participating schools and said that through the Associations’ initiative this festival was revitalised and thanked the Parliamentary Secretary, Clyde Puli for gladly accepting to assist in
this venture. Dr Mifsud also stressed the importance of young people practicing sport also in the summer months and encouraged everyone, especially the girls to join the nurseries of their respective localities.
MFA thanked all the staff and volunteers, the Futsal National Team players and the regional coaches for their continuous presence and impartial refereeing, South End Core (SEC), the participants and the sponsors (General Soft Drinks and TeamSport) for their role in making the festival a successful friendly event.
- During the MFA Council meeting to be held on Thursday, the members of the Council will be asked to discuss and approve several items on the agenda. These include draft new rules governing the National League 100 Anniversary Cup and draft new regulations on bribery and betting regarding football matches.
The proposed new Rules Governing the National League 100 Anniversary Cup deal with a new competition which will be organised by the Association during football season 2009/2010 to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the National League which started to be organised during football season 1909/1910. All Member Clubs will be invited to participate.
The draft new regulations on bribery and betting in football matches will complement the relative rules in the MFA Statute. Besides clearly defining bribery in football and the strict liability of clubs in case that a member of a Club’s Management Committee is involved in bribery regarding a football match in which his/her team is involved and besides clearly stipulating the penalties to which all those subject to the jurisdiction of the Association who are proved guilty of having been involved in attempted or completed corrupt acts or practices and/or who are proved guilty of having failed to report to the MFA authorities any attempted corrupt act or practice which comes to their knowledge and and/or who are proved guilty of having bet, even legally, on domestic football matches, will be subjected to, the new regulations clearly burden those proved guilty of having been involved in an attempted or completed corrupt act or practice with civil liability for the payment of damages to the Clubs concerned and the Association.
Furthermore, as from the coming football season, those directly involved in the management of domestic football will be required to sign an agreement with the Association regarding their civil liability for the payment of damages. Besides, licensed coaches, licensed referees, licensed players’ agents and those connected with the National Teams of the Association will also be subject to pay the Association a defined amount as pre-liquidated civil damages in case that these are proved guilty of having been involved in attempted or completed corrupt acts or practices.
The approval by the Council of the latter new draft regulations will certainly give more impetus to the declared war on corruption in domestic football which the Association is waging in full cooperation with the Executive Police who enforce the law by investigating and charging those suspected guilty before the Courts of Law.
- In view of the important Relegation Pool clash against Qormi on Sunday May 3rd, Hamrun Spartans FC will be organising a rally for supporters on Friday May 1st at 10:00 at the club premises in St Joseph High Road.
Club president Gaetano Cuschieri will be addressing the rally together with other club officials.
All supporters are urged to attend.
- The Senglea Nursery in conjunction with the Senglea Local Council will be organizing a Sports Day on May 3rd as part of the activities marking the Senglea Day.
These activities will be held at the synthetic turf pitch of the “31st May 1981 Ground”, better known as “Ground Tal-Ponta”. This Sports Day will start off with a mass and throughout the day, various sports activities will be held for all Senglea youths and youngsters under the age of 16.
This Sports day, apart from generating a sense of belonging for these youngsters to the Senglea community, will unite them in a healthy and active way.
- The Gudja Youth Nursery is receiving applications for qualified coaches willing to join the nursery for season 2009/2010.
Interested coaches should contact Leslie Burke on 79254626
Tue 28
- As part of the activities marking the hundredth anniversary from the foundation of Sliema Wanderers FC, MaltaPost plc will be using a special hand postmark on Saturday, 25th April 2009 at the MaltaPost Sliema Branch.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Sliema Wanderers coach Stephen Azzopardi said that a set of 500 commemorative covers will be issued with all funds generated going for Puttinu Cares Children's Cancer Support Group. These covers include the logo of Sliema Wanderers, the Sliema 100th anniversary logo and that of Puttinu Cares.
The commemorative covers, which will be available for €5, can be obtained from the MaltaPost Sliema Branch and from the MaltaPost Mobile Unit at the Marsa Sports Grounds during the Puttinu Cares football marathon which will be held between Friday 24th and Sunday 26th May. As from Monday, 27th April 2009, these covers will also be for sale at the Marsa (Head Office) branch.
Azzopardi said that this was another initiative by the club meant to support Puttinu Cares. He thanked Mr Michael Camilleri for contributing with his idea, Sliema Wanderers president Steve Abela, the technical staff namely Alfred Attard, Mark Tabone, James Azzopardi and Rupert Perry, the Sliema players, MaltaPost CEO Joe Gafa, Daniel Mangani from the Philately Department and Puttinu Cares chairman Dr Victor Calvagna.
The Sliema coach also thanked Maltapost and other sponsors namely Maypole, Halmann, Mutti and The Convenience Shop thanks to which all expenses for the issue of these commemorative covers have been covered and therefore all proceeds will be going to the Puttinu Cares.
Sliema Wanderers president Steve Abela said that the club will continue doing its best to raise the awareness towards Puttinu Cares and will continue doing so in other similar initiatives in future. He also said that once the Tigne Complex will be completed, it would also be made available for the organisation.
Maltapost CEO Joe Gafa said the support of such initiatives formed part of the company's corporate social responsability and announced that two teams from the company will be once again taking part in the football marathon. Sliema Wanderers players will also take part in the marathon, participating between midnight and 3:00 am, early on Sunday morning.
Puttinu Cares chairman Dr Victor Calvagna said that such initiatives will continue to increase the awareness towards their work. He said that the main objective for this year's marathon is to raise funds to complete the payment for three apartments in Sutton which will serve as free accommodation to patients who need special treatment abroad.
- Four Hamrun Spartans players were among five Premier League players to be banned by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner on Tuesday. The five players are Hamrun's Mark Anthony Bonnici, Sylvano Comvalius, Steven Meilak and Gaetan Spiteri and Birkirkara midfielder Alan Tabone.
Bonnici, Comvalius, Meilak and Spiteri are ruled out for the decisive Relegation Pool clash against Qormi on Sunday. Hamrun Spartans team manager Victor Cassar was banned for two matches.
Alan Tabone is ruled out of the Championship Pool clash against Valletta on Monday.
Christian Muscat (Dingli), Shawn Magro and Mead Mifsud (Mqabba), Domenic Mifsud (Pietà) and Larry Lagana (Vittoriosa) were suspended for one match in Division 1 while Pietà official Frankie Ciantar was suspended for two matches.
In Division 2, Daniel Scerri (Lija) and Noel Tabone (Birzebbuga) were handed a one-match ban.
In the Youth League, Hibs coach Edmond Lufi was suspended for two matches while Ansil Briffa (Pietà), Josef Cutajar and Steven Pisani (San Gwann) were banned for one match.
Mon 27
- Premier League Sliema W. vs Valletta 0-3
- Third Division Section A Gharghur vs Kalkara 3-0
- Third Division Section B Mtarfa vs Siggiewi 0-3
- Gozo - GFA Cup Victoria H. vs Zebbug R. 4-2
- This year’s first issue of the ‘MFA Quarterly Review’ will be distributed free of charge with the popular daily newspaper ‘The Times’ next Wednesday 29th April 2009.
This is in line with a new marketing strategy adopted by the Association in order to facilitate free distribution, thus making the magazine more accessible to the football followers and the public at large every three months.
The lavishly-illustrated publication, issued by the MFA Media Department and edited by Albert Fenech, is a compendium of the activities and news of the association for the previous three months, including those of member clubs and member associations. It also carries reports of Malta’s representative matches in all categories and articles relating to various football topics in our country.
Sun 26
- Premier League Qormi vs Msida SJ 2-1, Hibernians vs Marsaxlokk 2-2
- First Division St. George's vs Mosta 1-0, Rabat A. vs Senglea A.
- Second Division Lija A. vs St. Andrews 1-1, Sta. Venera L. vs Birzebbuga SP 0-3
- Third Division Section A Xghajra T. vs Mdina K. 2-2
- Third Division Section B Gzira U. vs Kirkop U. 1-0
- Gozo - Second Division Xaghra U. vs Xewkija T. 1-1
- Gozo - Gozo Cup Ghajnsielem vs Qala SJ 2-1
Sat 25
- Premier League Hamrun S. vs Tarxien R. 1-1, Birkirkara vs Floriana 3-1
- First Division Mqabba vs Dingli S. 3-0, Pietà H. vs Vittoriosa S. 1-3
- Second Division Melita vs Marsa 3-0, Mellieha vs Gozo 3-0
- Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs SK Victoria W. 2-0
- Gozo - Second Division St. Lawrence S. vs Gharb R. 2-4
- Gozo FC women's team, coached by David Mizzi, assisted by Mario Sciberras, concluded a most successful season in the MFA Women's League with an 18-1 win over Lija-Iklin to end their commitments with maximum points from fourteen matches.
In the final game, the usual Emma Xuereb and captain Rita Azzopardi scored six goals each with Joseline Gafa notching a hat-trick and Melania Bajada, Tracey Thewma and Sarah Sultana scoring one each. Therefore Emma Xuereb managed to score her 50th goal of the season.
Fourteen wins from fourteen matches are a clear sign of the supremacy shown by the Gozitans. They scored no less than 130 goals for an average of over nine goals per match. They suffered just five goals. They defeated Sta. Venera Yellow Blues 3-1 and 7-0; Mgarr United 5-1 and 3-0; Pembroke Athleta 6-0 and 11-0; Tarxien Rainbows 13-0 and 15-0; Marsa 14-0 and 12-1; Hamrun Spartans 5-0 and 5-0 and Lija Iklin 13-1 and 18-1.
After the game, MFA Vice-President and Women's Football Committee Chairman Ludovico Micallef, together with secretary Tanya Gravina presented the trophy to captain Rita Azzopardi in the presence of a number of Gozitan supporters. Also present were a number of GFA officials including President Alvin Grech, Vice-President Charles Calleja and General Secretary Joe Bajada./LI>
- White Eagles won the Futsal First Division title after defeating Jeepers FC 10-5 in the play-offs' final on Thursday.
Ironically White Eagles had finished the first phase in sixth place, just making it to the Championship Pool. In the second phase, they finished fourth. Jeepers and Naxxar Motors finished on top with Aluserv placing third.
In the play-offs' quarter-finals, White Eagles defeated Pentagon Properties BFC 4-3 and 4-0 while in the semi-finals, they eliminated Naxxar Motors followign a 4-5 defeat and an 8-2 win.
Meanwhile River Plate Futsal Club won the Second Division title after defeating Paola Downtowns FC 3-1 in the championship decider on Thursday.
River Plate had won Section A after beating Korol Attrans 4-1 in a decider after both ended their commitments on level points.
Mosta FC and Safi Southsiders won Sections A and B respectively in the Third Division with Mosta claiming the title after winning the championship decider 1-0. Joining them in Division 2 will be Capital Boys who won deciders against Demons and Second Division side Tal-Werqa S.G.
In the Fourth Division, Gladiators, Sliema Futsal and Red Marleys won sections A, B and C and were therefore promoted. Todos FC also secured promotion after winning the play-offs between the runners-up in each section.
Fri 24
- Third Division Section A Sirens vs Gudja U. 0-0
- Third Division Section B Zurrieq vs Santa Lucia 2-1
- The draws for the Women's Knock-Out were held on Friday at the MFA Headquarters, Ta' Qali.
These resulted as follows:
Preliminary Round 1 - 28/4 Pembroke A. vs Mgarr U.
Preliminary Round 2 - (A) 29/4 Lija/Iklin vs Gozo; (B) 5/5 Sliema R. vs Pembroke or Mgarr; (C) 28/4 St. Venera YB vs Hamrun S.; (D) 29/4 Marsa vs Tarxien R.
Quarter-Finals - QF1: Melita vs (B); QF2: Birkirkara vs (C); QF3: (A) vs (D); QF4: Hibernians vs Mosta
Semi-Finals - QF1 vs QF2; QF3 vs QF4
Wed 22
- As part of the activities marking the hundredth anniversary from the foundation of Sliema Wanderers FC, MaltaPost plc will be using a special hand postmark on Saturday, 25th April 2009 at the MaltaPost Sliema Branch.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Sliema Wanderers coach Stephen Azzopardi said that a set of 500 commemorative covers will be issued with all funds generated going for Puttinu Cares Children's Cancer Support Group. These covers include the logo of Sliema Wanderers, the Sliema 100th anniversary logo and that of Puttinu Cares.
The commemorative covers, which will be available for €5, can be obtained from the MaltaPost Sliema Branch and from the MaltaPost Mobile Unit at the Marsa Sports Grounds during the Puttinu Cares football marathon which will be held between Friday 24th and Sunday 26th May. As from Monday, 27th April 2009, these covers will also be for sale at the Marsa (Head Office) branch.
Azzopardi said that this was another initiative by the club meant to support Puttinu Cares. He thanked Mr Michael Camilleri for contributing with his idea, Sliema Wanderers president Steve Abela, the technical staff namely Alfred Attard, Mark Tabone, James Azzopardi and Rupert Perry, the Sliema players, MaltaPost CEO Joe Gafa, Daniel Mangani from the Philately Department and Puttinu Cares chairman Dr Victor Calvagna.
The Sliema coach also thanked Maltapost and other sponsors namely Maypole, Halmann, Mutti and The Convenience Shop thanks to which all expenses for the issue of these commemorative covers have been covered and therefore all proceeds will be going to the Puttinu Cares.
Sliema Wanderers president Steve Abela said that the club will continue doing its best to raise the awareness towards Puttinu Cares and will continue doing so in other similar initiatives in future. He also said that once the Tigne Complex will be completed, it would also be made available for the organisation.
Maltapost CEO Joe Gafa said the support of such initiatives formed part of the company's corporate social responsability and announced that two teams from the company will be once again taking part in the football marathon. Sliema Wanderers players will also take part in the marathon, participating between midnight and 3:00 am, early on Sunday morning.
Puttinu Cares chairman Dr Victor Calvagna said that such initiatives will continue to increase the awareness towards their work. He said that the main objective for this year's marathon is to raise funds to complete the payment for three apartments in Sutton which will serve as free accommodation to patients who need special treatment abroad.
- The finals of the Primary Schools Futsal Festival, organised by the Malta Football Association in conjunction with the Sports Promotion Unit within the Ministry of Sport, Youth and Culture, were held successfully on Tuesday.
St. Theresa College Birkirkara Primary School ended up as winners, followed by Mosta in second place and Zejtun in third, while the winners of the Fair Play Award were Zabbar Primary School. This award is considered to be highly important to the Malta FA since the Association insists upon a friendly atmosphere, team spirit, respect towards opponents and referee and behaviour of the whole squad and coaches. Birkirkara, thanks to their relentless and vociferous backing from their supporters, also won the Best Support Award. Louis Agius, co-ordinator of the South End Core, was very happy to present this award to the Birkirkara School. Their excellent support for their team throughout the festival was really remarkable.
In the Awards Ceremony, MFA President Dr Joe Mifsud highlighted the importance of an active and thus healthy lifestyle, and he urged all the youngsters present to keep active and enjoy sports. This Festival provides them with the opportunity to learn whilst enjoying themselves. It also helps to bring children closer to Futsal & Football thanks to the positive environment which is being provided. Dr Mifsud said that it is planned that next year this activity will be even bigger and better before jointly presenting the prizes to the winning schools with the Hon Clyde Puli, Parliamentary Secretary for Sport.
The activity was a success as all the schools participated in a spirit of enjoyment and fair play. There was also the involvement of teachers and staff of all the participating schools who joined the members of the South End Core in providing a great atmosphere of camaraderie and friendliness. During the course of the matches, national team players, Jamie Pace and Gilbert Agius carried out fun sessions which were greatly appreciated by the inactive pupils.
The finals of the Secondary Schools will be held on Tuesday, the 28th April at the Centenary Stadium from 9:00 to 13:00.
- International referee Esther Azzopardi Farrugia will be one of the referees in the forthcoming UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship 2009 Second Qualifying Round Group Three matches in Portugal.
Ms Azzopardi Farrugia will be accompanied by Glen Tonna as Assistant Referee. She is scheduled to control the Wales vs Azerbaijan match on Saturday 25th April and the Azerbaijan v France match on Tuesday 28th April.
Since Ms Azzopardi Farrugia has been promoted to Class 2 of the international women's list and also chosen as a 'talent' referee, she will be travelling to Switzerland for a Talents’ Course from 29th April to 1st May.
- Six players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner following the last round of matches from the BOV Premier League. The players are Clayton Failla (Hibernians), Jeffrey Chetcuti (Sliema), Everson Alan De Lima and Ramon Schembri (Tarxien), Roderick Briffa and Luke Dimech (Valletta).
Chetcuti, Briffa and Dimech are ruled out of the game between Valletta and Sliema Wanderers on Monday. De Lima and Schembri will miss the game against Tarxien on Saturday. Failla will be unavailable for the Paolites in the game against Marsaxlokk on Sunday.
In Division 1, Steve Borg (Mosta) and Pietà Hotspurs duo Gary Busuttil and Sharlon Pace were all suspended for one match.
Michael Ciappara (Birzebbuga), Andrew Caruana Scicluna (Melita), William Camilleri and Johann Said (Mgarr), Nathan Caruana (Sta. Venera) were handed a one-match ban in Division 2 while Martin Portelli (Xghajra) was banned for one match in the Youth League. Qrendi official Johann Azzopardi was suspended for two matches.
In the Youth League, Warren Scicluna (Dingli) was suspended for a total of five months, until September 21. Brandon Farrugia (Mqabba) was banned for four matches, Biern Farrugia (St. George's) for three, Vincenzo Brincat (Floriana) and Karl Doublet (Birzebbuga) for one match.
Tue 21
- The Malta Olympic team defeated Tunisia 2-1 in a friendly match at the MFA Training Grounds on Tuesday.
The game formed part of the team's preparation ahead of the Mediterranean Games which will be held in Pescara, Italy between June 26 and July 5.
Following a goalless first half, the visitors took the lead thanks to a goal by Mohammed Ali Maaloul on 51 minutes. Malta levelled matters with a cross shot by Karl Pulo on the hour and in added time, the same Pietà Hotspurs player made it 2-1 for the locals.
- Valletta F.C. is organizing a Rally for all Supporters next Friday 24th April at the Valletta Football Club in St Lucia street, Valletta at 7.30pm.
Club President Mr. Victor Sciriha will be addressing all the supporters. All supporters are urged to attend.
Mon 20
- Premier League Valletta vs Hibernians 2-1
- Third Division Section A Fgura U. vs Ghaxaq 2-2
- Third Division Section B Attard vs Pembroke A. 2-0
- The Futsal Festival for schools resumed on Tuesday as the competition enters its third phase, with the finals of the Primary and Secondary Schools being held on the 21st and 28th April respectively.
This school-based Festival, the brainchild of the Malta Football Association and the Ministry of Sport, Youth and Culture, and run by the Sport Promotion Unit and the MFA Technical Department, had its first phases completed some weeks ago. These proved to be a tremendous success as numerous schools participated.
The final phase of the Festival is going to be held again at the Centenary Stadium which provides the ideal setting for our young aspiring footballers to show their talents in an atmosphere of enjoyment. There will be simultaneous matches played on three or four pitches across the width of the artificial grass playing area at the Centenary Stadium, with a programme being drawn which includes the presence of national team players, Futsal national team players and regional coaches.
During the Primary Schools finals there will be fun sessions by national team players in the fourth mini-pitch since only three will be utilised, while all the four sectors of the pitch will used up for the Secondary Schools finals.
Besides prizes to the top three schools in each category, a Fair Play Award will be presented to one school (again in each category) based on various criteria such as team spirit, respect towards opponent and referee, positive play and behaviour of coach, qualities which involve the overall behaviour of the whole squad. There will also be the Best Support Award, based on originality, colourful streamers or flags and positive support. The national team official supporters club, South End Core, will evaluate these criteria when deciding the winner of this award.
Official presentations of the event winners are held at 12.30pm on both days (21st and 28th April) and are carried out by Hon. Clyde Puli, Dr. Mifsud and Mr. Ludovico Micallef.
The aim of the Malta Football Association and the Sport Promotion Unit in organising this Festival is to make youngsters aware of the importance of sport in their holistic development as well as to promote physical activity within the principles of fair play and integrity.
Sun 19
- Premier League Msida SJ vs Hamrun S. 2-0, Sliema W. vs Birkirkara 1-0
- First Division Mosta vs St. Patrick 0-1, San Gwann vs Rabat A. 3-3
- Second Division Mgarr U. vs Sta. Venera L. 2-3, Naxxar L. vs Zebbug R. 0-1, Gozo vs Marsa 3-0
- Third Division Section A Qrendi vs Xghajra T. 2-2, Kalkara vs Luqa SA 0-3
- Gozo - First Division Ghajnsielem vs Victoria H. 2-4
Sat 18
- Premier League Tarxien R. vs Qormi 0-3, Marsaxlokk vs Floriana 5-2
- First Division Pietà H. vs St. George's 1-2, Vittoriosa S. vs Senglea A. 3-2
- Second Division Birzebbuga SP vs Melita 1-4, St. Andrews vs Balzan Y. 0-0
- Gozo - Second Division Gharb R. vs Munxar F. 2-2, Oratory Y. vs Zebbug R. 1-4
Fri 17
- Second Division Mellieha vs Lija A. 0-3
- Rabat Depiro Football Nursery is calling for applications from qualified coaches who are interested in forming part of its coaching staff.
Those interested are invited to call Mr. Jesmond Falzon on mobile number 79258729 or the nursery on telephone number 21453568 after 6pm from Monday to Friday. The nursery can also be contacted by e-mail on rdepiro@maltanet.net
- The Malta Football Association will be holding a Futsal Coaches Course between Saturday 25 and Sunday 26th April. The course will be led by former Croatian national futsal coach Mico Martic. Theoretical and practical sessions will be held at the MFA Technical Centre, Ta' Qali and the Corradino Pavilion, Paola with the sessions being held between 09:00 and 17:00.
The course is free of charge, except for lunch and coffee break, is open for anyone but only a limited number of applications will be accepted on a first come basis. The closing date is Wednesday April 22.
Those attending the course should attend in full football kit - tracksuit, t-shirt, shorts and Indoor Futsal non-marking shoes.
- The Mellieha SC Football Nursery, in collaboration with the Mellieha Local Council, will be organising a football-themed evening, including various activities related to the game and the annual penalty shoot-out for the Nursery members on Saturday 18th April between 17:00 and 23:00.
As a special attraction, the club has made arrangements to bring over to Malta famous football freestyler Jeon Kwon.
Jeon Kwon is one of the most respected Freestyle Footballers and is the current world record holder for sole juggling. His main focus for this year is to go for the world championship which will be held in South Africa in June 2009. His inspiration comes from his love of football and the enthusiasm he generates among young footballers.
In this activity in Mellieha, he will be showing off his skills as well as interacting with the children. He will also perform live at the Urban Jungle in Birkirkara on Saturday at 12:30 and will entertain patrons at the Valletta Waterfront on Sunday at 13:00.
Various guests will be attending the event in Mellieha amongst whom various players, coaches and ex-players of the Malta National Team. The events include a penalty shoot-out for children aged 5 to 13, a mini-football tournament for the Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 players. Other activities include table soccer, trampolines, arcade football, tee ball, training demonstrations for parents by the MFA Regional Coaches, penalty shoot-out for adults, Playstation football games, football-themed face painting and a celebrity exhibition match. Live entertainment will be provided while food and drinks will be available.
The event will take place at the Mellieha SC Football Grounds and entrance is free.
Thu 16
- The Malta Under-21 team will continue its preparations for the Mediterranean Games which will be held in Pescara, Italy between June 26 and July 5 with a friendly match against Tunisia on Tuesday at the MFA Training Grounds, Ta' Qali.
Edwin Camilleri's side met Denmark and England C in friendly matches in friendly matches. Last month, the Under-21 side met Slovenia in the first game from the UEFA Under-21 Championship qualifiers, losing 0-2.
Before the Mediterranean Games, Malta will play another Under-21 Championship qualifier against Ukraine on June 9 away from home.
- The Mtarfa FCYN is accepting applications from qualified and committed coaches who are willing to form part of the technical staff for the coming season (2009/2010).
Interested persons are kindly asked to contact Mr Paul Mifsud on 79459391 or Mr Ian Sansone on 99499924 for further details. Alternatively one can send an email on ian.sansone@gmail.com.
- Todos Futsal Club committee would like to officially thank all the players for the promotion they have achieved from the Fourth to Third Division in the MFA Futsal League.
This has been a particularly massive achievement considering that this is the club's first year. Moreover, many thanks go to the team coach Jermain Brincat, goalkeeper coach Sean Mintoff, club president Luke Agius as well as well as their supporters and sponsors namely Briker Bar - Floriana and Eurosport.
Todos managed to complete their first league season unbeaten, winning five of the seven matches in Section C. Having finished the league second, one point behind league winners Red Marleys, Todos FC played the promotion play-offs were they ended up first with four points following a 3-2 win over DHL Arrows 3-2 and a 1-1 with B'Kara St. Joseph, thus winning promotion to Division 3.
The club would like to announce that it is currently organising a number of events and more information may be obtained from our website, www.todosfc.com. They are also currently considering the possibility to participate in a overseas futsal tournament. If anyone is interested in aiding financially the club with a small contribution, he/she may contact the team on the following email address, committee@todosfc.com
Wed 15
- Gozo - Second Division Xaghra U. vs St. Lawrence S. 4-0
- Gozo - GFA Cup Ghajnsielem vs Xewkija T. 2-1
- Seven players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner following the last round of matches from the BOV Premier League. The players are Christian Caruana (Floriana), Rupert Mangion (Hamrun), Pedro Dos Santos Calcado and Kenneth Spiteri (Msida), Adrian Ciantar (Qormi), Clifford Gatt Baldacchino (Tarxien) and Jamie Pace (Valletta).
Jamie Pace is ruled out of the top-of-the-table clash against Hibernians on Monday while Christian Caruana will be missing the game against Marsaxlokk on Saturday.
In the Relegation Pool, Mangion, Calcado and Spiteri are ruled out of the clash between Msida and Hamrun on Sunday while Ciantar and Gatt Baldacchino are out of the game between Tarxien and Qormi on Saturday.
In Division 1, John Debattista (Mqabba) was suspended for one match while Jonathan Buttigieg (San Gwann) and Ndubisi Chukunyere (Vittoriosa) were banned for two matches.
Balzan Youths duo Ivan Zammit and Aaron Agius were suspended for one match and two matches respectively after the Second & Third Division Knock-Out semi-final against Melita. Since the Youths were eliminated, they will be serving the ban in league matches.
Paul Azzopardi (Mtarfa) was handed a one-match ban in Division 3.
Aaron Lagana and Mauro Desira (Fgura), Kristen Borg (Ghaxaq), Alexie Cauchi (St. Andrews) and St. Patrick trio Daniel Gatt, Jurgen Farrugia and Randall Vella were all banned for one match in the Youth League while Pembroke coach Godwin Gatt was banned for two matches.
Tue 14
- Gozo - GFA Cup SK Victoria W. vs Sannat L. 4-4 (8-7 pen)
- The Malta Tourism Authority issued a report regarding reports claiming that Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday could meet in a friendly match in Malta this summer.
"Following a number of speculative reports that have appeared in the local and British press regarding the possibility of a 'Steel City' football derby to be held in Malta this Summer, between Sheffield United FC and Sheffield Wednesday FC, the Malta Tourism Authority would like to clarify the following points:
"The MTA was aware of the fact that Sheffield United FC intended to organize a Summer training camp in Malta in July."
"More recently, the MTA was also approached by Sheffield Wednesday FC with a view to organizing a training camp in Malta this Summer, wherein SWFC fans would be also invited to come along with the team for a holiday."
"The MTA took it upon itself to approach both parties with the idea of organizing a football game between the two teams, a 'Steel City derby', if the dates proposed by both teams could coincide or overlap."
"Naturally, due to the great, long-standing rivalry that exists between the two clubs, a good many logistical factors would first need to be discussed in depth and settled beforehand, not least being the issue of security."
"To date, formal talks still need to initiated between all the parties concerned and nothing is as yet decided or a fait accompli. "
- Rabat Ajax Supporters Club will be holding a rally for supporters on Thursday 16th April at the Rabat Ajax Football Club at 20:00.
The rally will be held in preparation of the next BOV First Division League game against San Gwann on Sunday at 16:30 at the Victor Tedesco Stadium.
All supporters are encouraged to attend.
- Chris Lautier has been appointed to control an important match in the Libyan championship between AHLI Benghazi and ITTIHAD Tripoli which is being played on Wednesday 15th April, in Benghazi.
Philip Agius and Alan Camilleri have been appointed as Assistant Referees
Mon 13
- Premier League Hibernians vs Birkirkara 2-0
- Third Division Section A Gudja U. vs Gharghur 1-1
- Third Division Section B Zejtun C. vs Mtarfa 3-2
Sun 12
- Premier League Qormi vs Hamrun S. 1-2, Floriana vs Sliema W. 1-1
- Gozo - First Division Victoria H. vs Nadur Y. 2-3, Kercem A. vs Qala SJ 5-3
Sat 11
- Premier League Tarxien R. vs Msida SJ 0-0, Marsaxlokk vs Valletta 0-1
- First Division Senglea A. vs San Gwann 0-1, Rabat A. vs Mqabba 2-0
- Second & Third Division Knock-Out Naxxar L. vs Sta. Venera L. 0-2, Melita vs Balzan Y. 2-0
- Gozo - First Division Sannat L. vs Ghajnsielem 1-2
- Gozo - Second Division Munxar F. vs Zebbug R. 0-3
Fri 10
- A pre-season friendly match between Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday could be held in Malta this summer.
According to a report by Paul Thompson on The Star, following a proposal from Malta, Sheffield Wednesday are planning to spend a week in Malta, playing two games at Ta' Qali.
One of these games could be against city rivals Sheffield United as the Blades, who are sponsored by the Malta Tourism Authority, could also spend part of the pre-season in Malta.
Last month, the MTA and Sheffield United had announced that the sponsorship agreement would be extended for a further two years, with an opt-out clause after a year.
The objective of this sponsorship agreement was that of promoting Malta in the area and throughout the UK and to help the MTA's strategies to change the image of Malta in the eyes of younger generation Britons through the association with a renowned football team.
The sponsorship deal and ongoing relationship has also generated publicity beyond the UK shores, as SUFC also own majority shares in another three clubs - Hungary's Ferencvaros, China's Chengdu Blades and Australia's Central Coast Mariners. Ferencvaros visited Malta in February while Central Coast Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson is set to form part in the Malta national squad as from next June.
The Malta Under-21 national squad will be holding its annual training camp at Bramall Lane this summer.
- Malta International Airport true to its Corporate Social Responsibility is committed to support sports and sportsmanship in Malta. This is being done primarily by encouraging young sport talent to emerge and moreover to gain exposure and experience in the course of international exchanges.
To this end MIA has invited youth football nurseries to participate at a children's under-9 football tournament which will take place on Monday 13th April. The winning team and runner-up will be the guests of MIA to participate at an international tournament in Austria which will be organised by our partner airport VIE from the 21st to the 24th of May 2009 for children's teams from the countries where VIE has partnership concerns in airports there. In fact teams from Hungary, Germany, Slovakia and Austria are expected to participate at this event. The tournament is intended to be an annual event in Malta as qualifier for the international football competition and will this year initially be hosted by Melita FC.
The meeting was addressed by MIA CEO Julian Jaeger who was also invited to draw the tournament fixtures. Julian Jaeger reiterated MIA's commitment to the promotion of sports in Malta maintaining that sports education among the younger generation is an investment in itself to enhance a healthier society for the future. Alex Aquilina Youth Nursery Head Coach introduced the rules and regulations for the event.
The 12 teams that will participate are Melita, Tarxien Rainbows, Pietà Hotspurs, Zebbug Rangers, Birkirkara, Hamrun Spartans, Mosta, Lija/Iklin, Paola Hibs, Sliema Wanderers, Floriana and Birzebbuga Windmills. These were accepted by the organisers after having responded to an official invitation received on a first come first served basis.
Thu 9
- Following two 3-0 defeats to Denmark and Hungary, Malta slipped five places in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking and is now ranked 151st.
Among the other European countries, Malta held the 49th place. Just ahead of Malta are Armenia (124, down 4), Luxembourg (126, down 4), Kazakhstan (136, down 6) and Azerbaijan (140, down 6). Lying behind Malta are Liechtenstein (155, down 4), Faroe Islands (166, up 19), Andorra (195) and San Marin (202, down 1).
Malta will now face the Czech Republic in a friendly match on June 5. The Czech Republic will be under the guidance of a new coach after Petr Rada was sacked on Wednesday. A 2-1 home loss to Slovakia proved the final straw for the Football Association of Czech Republic. A successor has yet to be appointed. In addition, Milan Baroš, Radoslav Kovác, Martin Fenin, Marek Matejovský, Václav Sverkoš and Tomáš Ujfaluši have been excluded from the squad for disciplinary reasons in the aftermath of the historic defeat by Slovakia in Prague.
On June 10, Malta faces Sweden in another World Cup qualifier in Gothenburg.
- Five Premier League players were handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner on Tuesday following the last round of matches. The five players are Birkirkara duo Ronni Hartvig and Shaun Bajada and Valletta trio Andrew Hogg, Ian Zammit and Roderick Briffa.
Hartvig and Bajada are ruled out of the game against Hibernians on Monday while Hogg, Zammit and Briffa will miss the game against Marsaxlokk on Saturday.
In Division 1, Victor Fiteni (Dingli), Bryan Agius and Mark Brincat (Mosta), Mauro Bonnici (Mqabba) and Essien Mbong (Senglea) were banned for one match while Mosta assistant coach Vince Carbonaro was suspended for two matches.
Balzan's Jonathan Francica was suspended for one game in Division 2 while Ludvic Camilleri (Ghaxaq), Adrian Lanzon and Kristian Galea (Sirens) were banned for one match in Division 3.
In the Youth League, Hamrun Spartans coach Marco Grech was handed a three-match ban while Karl Bonavia (Birkirkara), Larson Agius and Stefan Vella (Hamrun) and Kane Micallef (Melita) was banned for one match.
On Thursday, Johann Spiteri (Vittoriosa) was suspended for one match in Division 1 while in Division 2, Jonathan Mifsud and Kane Micallef (both Melita) and Josef Micallef (Mgarr) were banned for one game. Nico Corrito (Gzira) was handed a one-match ban in Division 3 together with Sta. Lucia's official John Urry.
Bronwen Bugeja (Hibs) and Patrick Zarb (Senglea) were suspended for one match in the Youth League while Darren Borg (Mellieha) was banned for two matches.
- The prestigious BOV Player of the Month was awarded to Hibernians player Andrew Cohen, who successfully topped the journalists' Best Player list. His skills and qualities during numerous games were instrumental in consolidating the team's position at the top of the BOV Premier League.
Emily Grech, Manager Paola Branch at Bank of Valletta presented the trophy to Mr. Cohen, who was visibly pleased to be selected as the BOV Player of the Month for March.
Cohen received much praise for his crafty tactics in the ground, particularly his insight of the games coupled with his excellent ball-playing skills; this has altogether made him an outstanding rival for other teams. The player is equally adapted at scoring and making goals for his colleagues, qualities which were seen in the player throughout the BOV Premier League but which became particularly evident during the month of March.
Following the presentation of the award the player was asked to select a beneficiary of the cash donation that is awarded by Bank of Valletta in relation to the award. The Capuchin Friary in Floriana was Cohen’s choice.
09/04/2009 17:51:21
- The Executive Committee of Mosta Football Club has decided to relieve Michael Molzahn of his coaching duties on the first team of the club with immediate effect.
Technical Director and Minors coach Vince Carbonaro has been vested to lead the First Division club throughout the rest of the season.
While thanking Michael Molzahn for the service rendered to the club during the past two and half years and wishing him all the best for his career, the club would like to augur Vince Carbonaro best of luck for the club’s remaining commitments in the league and knock-out competition.
Wed 8
- Gozo - Second Division Xewkija T. vs St. Lawrence S. 2-0, Gharb R. vs Oratory Y. 2-2
Tue 7
- Second Division Lija A. vs Gozo 5-2, Marsa vs Birzebbuga SP 0-1
- The Malta Football Association, joins the Maltese public in expressing its good wishes to Dr George Abela on his assuming office as Malta’s eighth President of the Republic on Saturday, 4th April 2009.
These felicitations to Dr Abela, a former MFA President, are mingled with the MFA’s gratitude to H.E. President Emeritus Dr Eddie Fenech Adami, who was the Association’s Patron for the past five years.
The MFA is very proud that Dr. Abela had sports, particularly football, very close to his heart, and indeed rendered invaluable service to this sport, as he did in other spheres of society in our country.
This affable and humble man, who is at the same time endowed with intelligence and a deep sense of vision, did a lot to enhance Malta’s standing in the football world during his tenure of office as the Association’s President between 1982 and 1992.
It was the time when Dr Abela laid the groundwork for more progress through important changes in Maltese football, changes which the man now occupying the highest post in our football hierarchy, Dr Joe Mifsud, successfully continued to build on.
When he was at the Association’s helm Dr Abela also imbued unwavering affection amongst the Maltese for our national team, something which the MFA feels sure will now be mirrored in the commitment of the Presidency to continue to instill in Maltese citizens a sense of belonging to their country.
The big football family in our islands is again proud that Dr Abela also emerged from the ranks of the MFA, apart from other spheres of social and political activity in Malta, and that at this point in time he is the symbol of a country which will continue to treasure noble values all men stand for.
Heartfelt best wishes to his H. E. Dr George Abela, President of Malta.
- The MFA Technical Centre will be organising a Goalkeepers’ Coaching Course at Ta’ Qali Technical Centre. This course is over three days, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd May 2009.
Interested persons are required to submit a duly filled application form available during office hours from the Technical Centre, Ta’ Qali. This form should be accompanied by a photocopy of at least a CYF (Coaching Young Footballers) qualification and a passport-size photo.
Coaches, BOV Premier and 1st Division goalkeepers as well as ex-goalkeepers are eligible to apply.
Applications will be accepted on a first-come-first-served basis and when the maximum number is reached no more applications will be accepted.
Closing date for applications is Tuesday 28th April 2009.
Mon 6
- Premier League Sliema W. vs Hibernians 0-5
- Third Division Section A Mdina K. vs Fgura U. 4-1
- Third Division Section B Kirkop U. vs Siggiewi 1-4
- Paola Stars Futsal Club will be holding the second edition of the PSFCFUTSAL09 Tournament - Siminu Challenge Cup.
The first edition of the tournament which was held last year was recognised by the Malta Football Association and UEFA as the Best Grassroots Futsal Event in Malta for last year.
The tournament will be held between June 16 and June 29. The June 29th final will be followed by a BBQ during which the official presentation will be carried out.
A maximum of eight teams will be accepted. Participation fee is €180 per team. The closing date is June 6th.
Sun 5
- Premier League Msida SJ vs Qormi 0-5, Birkirkara vs Marsaxlokk 1-2
- First Division St. Patrick vs Pietà H. 1-3, Dingli S. vs Mosta 1-0
- Second Division Zebbug R. vs St. Andrews 3-3, Sta. Venera L. vs Naxxar L. 3-0
- Third Division Section A Ghaxaq vs Sirens 3-2
- Third Division Section B Santa Lucia vs Gzira U. 0-1
- Gozo - First Division Victoria H. vs Kercem A. 4-5, Nadur Y. vs Qala SJ 3-0
Sat 4
- Premier League Tarxien R. vs Hamrun S. 5-1, Valletta vs Floriana 0-0
- First Division Mqabba vs Senglea A. 2-0, St. George's vs Vittoriosa S. 0-4
- Second Division Balzan Y. vs Mellieha 2-1, Melita vs Mgarr U. 0-0
- Gozo - First Division SK Victoria W. vs Ghajnsielem 0-4
- Gozo - Second Division Xaghra U. vs Zebbug R. 2-2
- The Mellieha SC Football Nursery, in collaboration with the Mellieha Local Council, will be organising a football-themed evening, including various activities related to the game and the annual penalty shoot-out for the Nursery members on Saturday 18th April.
Various guests will be attending amongst which various players, coaches and ex-players of the Malta National Team. As a special attraction, the club has made arrangements to bring over to Malta famous football freestyler Jeon Kwon, who will be displaying his skills and interacting with the children at the event.
Jeon Kwon is the current Korean Champion and is ranked second in the world. He appears on Sky Sports ads, BBC TV entertainment Pro and other major TV stations including KBS, MBC, SBS, YTN. Kwon, who also appears on TV commercials for Adidas and Nike, won the UCC contest-Find Ronaldinho of Korea-organized by Nike Korea 2007. He also participated in the production of computer game eXtreme soccer. Among his major performance were touring shows in London, Beijing and Athens, the opening ceremony for the National Juvenile Games, the Children Day's games at Seoul World Cup stadium and the Seoul International Motor show.
The event will take place at the Mellieha SC Football Grounds and entrance is free.
Visit www.jeonsoccer.com and www.melliehasportsclub.org for more information.
Thu 2
- First Division Pietà H. vs Dingli S. 1-3, Mosta vs Rabat A. 1-0
- The fourth in a series of lectures organised by the MFA's Committee for Administrators for Member Clubs Secretary and Administrators was held earlier this week at the Centenary Hall, Ta' Qali with a good attendance.
Mr Carmelo Bartolo, MFA Senior Vice President and Chairman of the Board for Administrators made a short welcoming address and introduced the 'guest' speakers in what turned out to be one of the most interesting sessions so far this season.
Mr Nikki Dimech, a qualified Accountant and also V/President of leading Premier club Sliema W. FC, lectured with some detail about Malta's taxation and VAT obligations for Maltese Football Clubs particularly with regards to players registered or employed with the respective clubs.
Police Superintendent Peter Paul Zammit then spoke at length about the various legal responsibilities of all Member Club Secretaries and other Officials and Committee members while exercising their duties during the football season which may have serious repercussions if not properly addressed.
- After the great experience with its older age groups that played in Manchester last summer, Pietà Hotspurs Youth Nursery organised another trip to Italy and Switzerland where its Under-8 kids participated in various mini-tournaments and friendly games against Swiss and Italian teams between the 26th and 31st March 2009.
They played against Campionese, losing 3-2, but then won all the following matches - vs Mellimarco 7-0, vs Campione d'Italia 2-0 and vs Mellimorco B 6-0. On the next day, they played at the Lugano Stadium against Rapid Lugano, winning 5-0, 2-0 and 3-0. On Monday 30, the Hotspurs defeated Chievo Verona 7-3. The kids really enjoyed playing football in a very friendly atmosphere, besides playing in excellent facilities, especially those of Rapid Lugano and Chievo Verona.
The contingent consisted of over 26 players, coaches and parents. Head-Coach Godfrey Grima, Claudio Azzopardi, Eliseo Pavanello and Chis Okoh were the officials in charge.
It was a wonderful experience for the young players as they met other players from other countries who play different styles of football. They had the chance to visit some interesting places, such as Mountain of San Gottardo, Padova, Verona, Treviso, the Swiss miniature in Lugano and the chocolate fair.
- The Malta Football Coaches Association is going to organise a seminar for all coaches members of the association on Saturday 4th April, 2009 at the Juventus Supporters Club, Triq Madre Maria Spinelli, B'Kara. The seminar starts at 9:00.
The lecturers of this seminar are going to be:
- Physiotherapist
- Former referee
- Former coach
Wed 1
- FIFA World Cup HUNGARY vs MALTA 3-0
Speaking after the game, Dusan Fitzel said: "It is difficult to talk after such a game. It was the same game as last Saturday against Denmark when we received an early goal. I think we did not deserve to lose with such a score. We have a problem with creativity, to create goals."
Fitzel was pleased with the performance of the younger players in the squad.
"I am sure that something beneficial out of this match is the fact that they got more experience although they have a lot to improve."
He was very happy with the second half where we were not only destroying but creating something from what we have.
The Malta coach remarked that Hungary have improved lately and they deserve the top spot.
A delighted Erwin Koeman told the media: "The stadium was full of spectators, it was a full house and the Hungarian spectators wanted this win. The team was prepared to give a nice evening to the supporters. It was not easy to play against Malta, I was more afraid in the Albania match last Saturday, there was more to lose as today we were obliged to win. It was important to get the first goal at an early stage."
"During the second half, Malta was stronger and had good chances as well. It was all at risk until we scored the second goal, and the goal from Gera was important as it deliberated the team," said the former Dutch international player.
"I am happy we won tonight since we can say we had an excellent week with two wins and we are still in the competition. I am satisfied with the six points from the two matches. We played in front of a full house and the spectators came to see their team win. In June we have the next matches against Denmark, Sweden and Portugal. Now the players can enjoy themselves after the results. The spirit of the team is very high and it is important that we keep it this way.
He said that Gera was not included in my first eleven since he was satisfied with the performance he had against Albania. The Hungary coach said he knew he risked playing Bodnar since he already has a yellow card but he said it was worth the risk. Koeman revealed that having such a good substitute bench was an advantage for the team.
"When I came to coach the Hungarian team, the players were all good players but when you are on top in the international matches, you have to keep this quality in all the matches. I have a sincere personality, I enjoy life and I try all the time to get closer to my players," concluded Koeman.
- Gozo - Second Division Xewkija T. vs Gharb R. 5-0