May 2009
Thu 31
- First Division Knock-Out St. Patrick vs Dingli S. 2-0
- The football season for the Youth Football Association came to an end on Sunday with the finals of the Good Causes Fund Under-17 and Under-15 Knock-Out competitions which were both held at the Luxol Ground.
The Under-15 Knock-Out final turned out to be an highly entertaining clash between Pietà Hotspurs and Section B winners Pembroke Athleta.
Terrence Agius scored the all-important goal for the Hotspurs in the second half. After the game, Pietà were presented with the trophy by YFA president Fr Hilary Tagliaferro.
In the Under-17 Knock-Out final, Paola Hibs faced San Gwann. The Paolites were in search of the double after winning the APS Bank Under-17 Section A league. For San Gwann, this was the first time they reach the final of this knock-out competition.
The two teams shared the exchanges throughout the game. Following a goalless first half, Paola Hibs managed to break the deadlock but a few minutes later, San Gwann levelled matters to force extra-time. No goals were scored in extra-time and therefore penalties had to decide the issue. The Paolites won 5-4 to complete the double. The Hibs captain was presented with the trophy by Good Causes Fund administrator Alex Grima, on behalf of the Minister for Finance.
The two finals, which were a fine display of good football and fair play, brought to an end a season during which around 840 matches were played. The winners in the various sections were:
Under-17 Section A: Paola Hibs
Under-17 Section B: Hamrun Spartans
Under-17 Section C1: Gozo
Under-17 Section C2: Mgarr United
Under-15 Section A: Paola Hibs
Under-15 Section B: Pembroke Athleta
Under-15 Section C1: Zejtun Corinthians
Under-15 Section C2: Attard
Under-15 Section C3: Lija/Iklin
Fri 29
- The Armed Forces of Malta will be organising the 1st Malta International Football Tournament, under the Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) - The International Military Sports Council’s umbrella, between Tuesday 2nd and Thursday 4th June 2009.
Taking part in the tournament are the Malta Police, the Armed Forces of Cyprus, the Armed Forces of Greece and the AFM Football Team.
The tournament will be held at the Hibernians Football Ground as follows:
Tuesday 2nd June
15:30 Opening Ceremony
16:00 AFM vs Malta Police
18:00 AF Cyprus vs AF Greece
Wednesday 3rd June
16:00 AFM vs AF Cyprus
18:00 Malta Police vs AF Greece
Thursday 4th June
16:00 Malta Police vs AF Cyprus
18:00 AFM vs AF Greece
21:00 Presentations and Closing Ceremony at the Luqa Barracks.
Fri 29
- FA Trophy Valletta vs Sliema W. 3-3 aet (3-4 pen)
- Second & Third Division Knock-Out Sta. Venera L. vs Melita 0-3
- Naxxar Lions Youth Football Nursery with the collaboration of Premier School of Football will be organising the soccer star challenge during this year's summer training camp. Eight once a week training sessions will be held for children aged 6 to 16 years at the Nursery's synthetic turf pitch in Naxxar.
The programme consists of practices and games to enable children to learn essential soccer techniques, together with six simple reliable tests:
- Running with the ball
- Turning with the ball
- Speed (changing direction without the ball)
- Dribbling
- Heading
- Shooting
The Soccer Star Challenge is fun to do and captures kids' imagination. It provides simple goal getting opportunities for kids and tangible feedback for parents.
Attending fee, which includes a free ball and a minimum of 2 coaches per training session, will be €45 (Lm20). A free Soccer Star Certificate will be given to every child at the end of the programme.
Those interested to attend are kindly requested to contact Mr Dione Drago on mob no 99497769 or Mr Alex Delia on mob no 99470423 by not later than the 6th of June 2009. We hope that many will take advantage of this opportunity to attend a highly enjoyable summer camp with a difference.
- Mgarr United FC together with Mgarr Youth Nursery will be holding an Open Weekend between Friday 29 and Sunday 31st May.
The main objective of this open weekend is to raise funds for the installation of an artificial turf pitch in Mgarr. Works on which will start this summer.
A 7-a-side tournament will be held on Friday at 19:00 while entertainment will be provided later in the evening with Freddie Portelli being the main guest.
On Saturday morning, children from the Mgarr nursery from the Under-7 to the Under-13s will be taking part in training sessions together with children from the Mellieha nursery starting at 08:30. A girls' tournament will be held at 13:00. Another tournament will be held at 16:30 for children born between 1993 and 1996. Fun games for both children and their parents will be held at 19:30. This will be follwed by a football game between parents and coaches from the nursery.
An exhibition match for former Mgarr players will be held at 09:00 on Sunday which will be followed by a 7-a-side tournament. A treasure hunt will be held at 10:00. Those willing to take part should form a team of between four to six participants and contact Elaine Vella on 79867045, by not later than Saturday. A donation of €2 is requested from each participant. Other activities on Sunday morning include back massage, skin consultation and face painting.
Thu 28
- The BOV Premier League 2009/2010 will kick-off on August 21. This was revealed on Thursday as the Council of the Malta Football Association approved the competitions for the coming season.
A new competition for next season is the National League 100 Anniversary Cup while the Euro Cup, which was in doubt, will be held after all despite some players being unavailable to play for their clubs due to the Malta Under-20 national team's commitments in the Mediterranean Games in Pescara.
The Euro Cup will be played on a league-basis between the four teams taking part in UEFA competitions, namely Birkirkara, Hibernians, Sliema Wanderers and Valletta. It will be played on June 22, 24 and 26. The following week, three of the teams will be in action in the first qualifying rounds of the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League. The winner of the U*BET FA Trophy will enter the second qualifying round on July 16.
The BOV Super Cup will be played on August 17, just four days before the BOV Premier League kicks-off. Throughout the first phase, there will be five games each week, except for breaks due to national team commitments and other competitions. There will be a two-week break in the festive season with the last games to be played in December being scheduled for the 20th and first games in January scheduled for the 8th.
The first phase comes to an end on February 15. The second phase gets underway on February 27.
The final matches from the Relegation Pool are expected to be played in the weekend 23-25 April while the final league match will be played on May 5.
The U*BET FA Trophy gets underway with first round matches on October 31 and November 1. The second round will be held on February 20 and 21 while the quarter-finals will be played on April 3 and 5 since no games are scheduled for Easter Sunday. The semi-finals will be played in May, unlike this season, and are scheduled for May 10 and 11. The FA Trophy final will be played on May 16.
The last-32 stage of the National League 100 Anniversary Cup will be held over three days - November 6, 7 and 8 while the last-16 stage will be played on December 5 and 6. The quarter-finals are scheduled for February 10 while the semi-finals will be played on March 24. The final is programmed for May 31.
The complete list of competitions for next season is: National League - Premier League, First Division League, Second Division League and Third Division League; FA Trophy; Super Cup; Euro Cup; First Division Knock-Out Competition; Second & Third Division Knock-Out Competition; National League 100 Anniversary Cup; 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.
- The four teams that will be taking part in UEFA competitions next season wall be Hibernians, Valletta, Birkirkara and Sliema Wanderers after the MFA Appeals Board stood by its decision to deny Marsaxlokk a UEFA license.
Last month, the Council had asked the board to reconsider the decision following a request by Marsaxlokk. The latter were denied a license after the Inland Revenue Department failed to accept a payment by Marsaxlokk within the time-limit over pending payments related to about three years earlier. The club had claimed that the presentation of the relevant Inland Revenue documents was therefore not possible due to something which was beyond their control.
However during a meeting of the Council of the Malta Football Association, MFA president Dr Joe Mifsud explained that the Council had no power over these two independent boards and therefore could not decide on the issue itself.
Therefore Hibernians will be representing Malta in the UEFA Champions League while Valletta, Birkirkara and Sliema Wanderers will be taking part in the UEFA Europa League.
Hibernians will enter the first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League. Birkirkara and the losing finalists of the U*BET FA Trophy will take part in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League. The winners of the U*BET FA Trophy will enter the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League.
- Swieqi United will be taking part in the BOV Third Division League 2009/2010 after they were approved unanimously by the Council of the Malta Football Association on Thursday.
The addition of Swieqi means that the number of clubs in Division 3 increased to twenty as Qrendi and Mtarfa who placed last in Sections A and B respectively have both re-applied and were approved.
Swieqi United were founded earlier this year and the first committee was elected on April 14.
- After last year's success, beach soccer will be back in less than a month's time with another three weeks of action at Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha. The competition - the Coca-Cola Zero Beach Soccer Cup - will be held between June 20th and July 5th.
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, goalkeepers are tested to the absolute limit. However, even they cannot 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.
Addressing the media during a press conference at the Le Meridien St. Julian's, one of the promoters of this annual event, Bjorn Vassallo gave a brief summary on what is planned for this summer. A beach soccer stadium will be built once again for this purpose.
Vassallo said the sport is now well spread around Europe and around the world and the organisers' objective was to promote this sport even further on the island.
Mark Marlow said sixteen teams, divided into four groups, will be taking part in the men's tournament. Two teams from each group reach the quarter-finals. A women's tournament open for six teams will be held over the first week of the beach soccer tour with the final being held during the third week.
Marlow revealed that the organisers are considering turning this tournament into a league which would be held during a much longer period of time. Another objective is that of creating national teams for both men and women. This would only be made possible with the support of the Kunsill Malti ghall-Isport and the Malta Football Association.
Activities will not only include beach soccer tournaments for both men and women - last year won by Zirbi United and Birkirkara respectively - but also beach handball, beach tennis and Sports Buzz - one of the Kunsill Malti ghall-Isports' programmes. All Beach Soccer matches will be played between Wednesdays and Sundays, with alternative sports activities organised on the other days.
Once again the Malta Handball Association has partnered with the event and a Beach Handball Tournament will be organised. A total of 14 Hand Ball teams will participate, eight in the male category and six in the female category. Participating teams include Kavallieri, Luxol, La Salle, St. Aloysius and a representative of the national team.
The event also welcomes Beach Tennis. The activities are sponsored by HEAD, represented in Malta by Eurosport, who created this programme to enhance the popularity of tennis with all generations. This programme could be used with groups of 15 to 20 athletes at one time. Played in a mini-court complete with a net and together with sets of cones, hurdles, markers and hoola hoops.
The Mellieha Local Council will also take this opportunity to once again organise an event for the Mellieha residents. The activities will be coordinated by Hilary Fenech, a councillor within the Mellieha Local Council.
The Kunsill Malti ghall-Isport is also one of the main partners in this event and will relocate one of its popular sports programmes to Golden Bay. KMS Chairman Bernard Vassallo stated that Sports Buzz is a recently-launched sports programme, intended to target children from the Cottonera area, with the objective of including them in a 'sport social world', helping them to make new friends while learning new skills, experiencing a variety of sport activities and develop a positive attitude towards life.
Edward Borg from General Soft Drinks said it was a pleasure for the company to support once again this event for the second successive year.
Interested Beach Soccer teams are to apply by registering on a Beach Series 2009 application and inserting their details as requested. Applications will only be accepted until the 16th of June 2009. Beach Soccer teams’ registrations are at charge.
The organisers, MBA Sports World, can be contacted on 9944 7297 or emailed at beachsoccermalta@yahoo.com
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, Budweiser, J20, Eurosport, Le Meridien St.Julians Hotel & SPA, Union Print, Big Exhibits, Melita Sports, Radio 101, Munchies Beach Café, One Sport and stephengatt.com.
- The committee of Valletta FC issued a statement to thank their supporters.
The statement signed by general secretary Joe Attard states:
"Whilst I know the result of the game vs Hibernians was not what you “City fans” would have wanted, the result of your overall behaviour surely was. Your support on Sunday was “Unique”.
Valletta Football Club has every reason to be proud of you, especially those who braved the scorching sun at the Millennium Stand; all you fans did a great deal to enhance not only the club’s reputation but also your own. Well Done.
My message for tonight is to come up and support the boys. We have an important match to play and we do hope that we finish the season in style, and say a big thank you to our President Mr Victor Sciriha.
Il-kumitat dejjem warajkom"
Meanwhile Valletta FC will be issuing a special edition of the Lily Whites magazine. This highly collectible program can be picked up from the Valletta Supporters Club on Match day during the morning and at the National Stadium from both sides of the Stadium prior to kick off time.
This is a sure must collectible program for every city fan as a surprise photo awaits you in the centre pages. Support your team collect your program.
Wed 27
- Four Premier League players were suspended after the final games from the BOV Premier League.
Marsaxlokk striker Julio Cesar Alcorse was banned for three matches while Brian Said and Kevin Sammut of Marsaxlokk and Paul Fenech of Birkirkara were banned for one game.
Terence Vella (Pietà) was handed a two-match ban in the First Division Knock-Out while George Vassallo (Mqabba) and Ishmael Cutajar (Mosta) were suspended for one match in the Youth Knock-Out.
- Hibernians F.C. will be celebrating the championship with an activity which will be held on Friday 29th May from 18:00 onwards.
A thanksgiving mass will be held at 18:00 at the Parish Church. The senior team and the Minors, Under-17 and Under-15 sides will be attending.
The three band clubs will be playing at a march which will take them from the Pawla Wolves, Telghet Rahal Gdid, Triq il-Gdida, Triq l-Arkata, Triq Guze Damato, Triq Lampuka, Triq Tal-Borg and Pjazza Antoine de Paule, starting at 19:00.
This will be followed by presentations by a number of clubs and associations together with other individuals at 21:00 while entertainment will be provided as from 22:00 in front of the club premises.
- Luqa St. Andrew's Youth Nursery is receiving applications from qualified coaches willing to join our nursery for season 2009/2010
Interested coaches can contact Secretary Godfrey Borg on 99868730 or send an email on godfreyb@melita.com
- For the third consecutive year, the Tarxien Rainbows Youth Nursery with the collaboration of Head Coach Mr. Michael Degiorgio will be organizing the summer skill football activity on its training grounds.
This school is open for all boys and girls ages 6 to 12 years. A total of 8 sessions in the months of July and August will be led by the ex-Malta Player, UEFA A coach Mr. Michael Degiorgio.
Those interested in taking part are to contact Mr. Michael Degiorgio on mobile no.99476968 or the Tarxien Rainbows Nursery Secretary Mr. Mark Aquilina on mobile number 79061442 by not later than Sunday the 31st of May 2009. Late applications will not be accepted.
- Pietà Hotspurs F.C. Youth Nursery is accepting applications from qualified coaches to form part of its technical coaching staff for season 2009-10.
Those interested should send a letter, including their coaching experience addressed to the Secretary, Pieta Hotspurs Youth Nursery, Our Lady of Sorrows Street, Pietà or by an email to the Secretary on pietahfc@maltanet.net
The closing date is 15th June.
Tue 26
- The Malta Futsal team, under the guidance of coach Michal Striz, lost 4-7 in a second friendly match against the Czech Republic Under-21 side at the Corradino Pavilion on Tuesday.
Filip Nebor and Michal Kovacs put the visitors two goals ahead on 3 and 7 minutes respectively. Malta pulled one back through Elton Vella on the 10th but Kovacs scored again on 17 minutes.
Four minutes in the second half, Kovacs made it 4-1 but Rowen Muscat scored a second goal for Malta on 25 minutes. Goals by Kovacs (28') and Michal Holy (32') made it 6-2. Darren Agius scored the third goal for Malta on 33 minutes. In the dying minutes, Matej Slovacek and James Ciangura scored again for a 7-4 score.
- Malta International Airport was represented by the Mosta and Birkirkara Under-9 football teams at an International Football Tournament in Austria. The two teams were selected through a Tournament which was held in Malta last month with 12 participating Teams following an invitation from MIA to all local Youth Nurseries.
The VIE Tournament which took place between 23rd and 24th of May 2009 was hosted by ASK-Bruck Club at the Bruck Stadium. 16 Teams participated in the Tournament from Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Hungary and Malta.
The location proved to be ideal for the event and thoroughly enjoyed by all participants, officials and accompanying parents.
During the first round of games on the first day of the Tournament Mosta and Birkirkara each played 4 games, both winning 2 and losing 2.
In their second match Mosta scored a record of 13 goals for this Tournament, Birkirkara were unlucky to be drawn against the winning team of the tournament in their first match, giving then a tough start but they went on to win the rest of their games in the Tournament.
On the second day of the Tournament both Teams beat their opponents with Birkirkara ending in 9th place over all following a closely fought game 3-2 against SV Gols, an Austrian side. Mosta on the other hand beat their opponents 5-0 against ESV Parndorf to end the tournament in 7th place.
This was an experience the children will cherish for long having been given international exposure in the practice of their favorite sport at such a tender age.
Mon 25
- Hibernians youths, under the guidance of coach Edmond Lufi, secured the Youth League Section A title.
After losing the first game 1-2 to Mgarr United, the Paolites were then a transformed side as they won twelve matches out of the remaining matches, ending their commitments on 40 points. Valletta placed second two points behind.
The Hibs squad included a number of players who already turned out for the senior side including Elkien and Yan Cauchi, Jonathan Xerri, Jean Paul Farrugia, Daniel Balzan, Timothy Fleri Soler, Leighton Grech and Triston Caruana.
The Paola Hibs Youth Nursery also had a most successful season. In the APS Bank Under-17 Section A, Paola Hibs placed first on 54 points, four points ahead of Pietà Hotspurs.
Paola Hibs dominated the APS Bank Under-15 Section A when they won the league with an unbeaten record. They finished their commitments on 58 points from 22 matches, eighteen points ahead of Sliema Wanderers.
- Floriana are once again organising a Soccer Summer School between July 6th and August 28th.
Training sessions will be held at Floriana new artificial turf and organised by qualified coaches.
Each participant will have two sessions per week, to a maximum of sixteen sessions. The fee is €60.00. Early booking is recommended.
At the end of the Soccer Summer School a BBQ will be held on August 29th and each participant will be admitted free of charge when accompanied by two paying adults.
One can get further details from the nursery premises which are open from 16.00 onwards or by phoning 99859099 or 79708243
- The Malta Futsal team, under the guidance of coach Michal Striz, lost 0-6 to the Czech Republic Under-21 side in a friendly match at the Corradino Pavilion on Monday.
The scorers were Marek Chadima (5', 19'), Michal Holy (16'), David Cupak (22', 25') and Ladislav Vaclavsky (36'). The game was controlled by Gjergi Bitri and Paul Apap.
A second match in this 'double-header' will be played on Tuesday at the Corradino Sports Pavilion at 19:15.
- Zurrieq Youth Nursery is receiving applications from qualified coaches willing to join the nursery for season 2009/2010 ideally with licence B and C.
Interested coaches can contact Robert Bajada on 79091523 or send an email on zurrieqfcyn@gmail.com
- The Marsa F.C. Youth Nursery has a vacant post for nursery headcoach/administrator.
Those interested should contact the nursery secretary, Lizio Vella, on 79956544 for an interview with the committee.
Sun 24
- Premier League Hibernians vs Valletta 0-0
- Third Division Promotion Play-off Final Zurrieq vs Sta. Lucia 2-2 aet (5-4 pen)
- The Organising Committee of the 8th edition of the Melita Malta Football Awards announced the finalists for this year's edition which is to be held on Tuesday 2nd June 2009 at the Grand Hotel Excelsior, Floriana.
Apart from the now established categories of which the finalists have been announced, this year there will be more Awards given out during this high profile night which will be televised live on Melita Sports and on the Weather and Info Channel of Melita. These extra Awards will be the Best Third Division Award and the Public's Most Favourite Player Award. The latter is the only Award for which the voting is still open. Football supporters and televiewers can vote by sending an SMS on 5061 4914 with the name of their favourite player for the 2008/09 season. Melita Mobile subscribers must send sms's on 50614 008. Tarxien Rainbows captain Steve Sadowski is currently leading the category with a narrow lead over Gilbert Agius of Valletta and Mario Muscat of Hibs. Voting via sms will come to an end during the actual presentation night.
In the meantime, Sandro Micallef - Chairperson Malta Football Awards commented that the response from those who were entitled to vote for the main Premier League categories was very satisfactory with the majority handing in their vote to the organizing committee on time before the elimination process before the three finalists could be determined. Those who were entitled to vote for the established Premier League Categories included 45 local journalists, 10 Premier Club Presidents, 10 Premier Club Coaches and 10 Premier Club Captains.
Although these awards are mainly focused to establish the best Premier League players in their respective votes, the Organizing Committee would also like to publicly thank all the Clubs in lower divisions especially the 2nd, 3rd and Futsal Clubs who sent in their votes on time, thus confirming that the Melita Malta Football Awards is also being appreciated by these respective divisions.
The following are the finalists of the 8th edition:
Best Goalkeeper
Anthony Curmi (Tarxien R.)
Andrew Hogg (Valletta)
Mario Muscat (Hibernians)
Best Defender
Luke Dimech (Valletta)
Ronni Hartvig (Birkirkara)
Alex Muscat (Sliema)
Best Midfielder
Roderick Briffa (Valletta)
Andrew Cohen (Hibernians)
Clayton Failla (Hibernians)
Best Forward
Mariano Bueno (Tarxien)
Njongo Priso Doding (Valletta)
Terrence Scerri (Hibernians)
Best Coach
John Buttigieg (Birkirkara)
Mark Miller (Hibernians)
Paul Zammit (Valletta)
Most Promising Youngster
Miguel Ciantar (Sliema)
Jean Paul Farrugia (Hibernians)
Tyrone Farrugia (Msida SJ)
Best Local Player
Andrew Cohen (Hibernians)
Clayton Failla (Hibernians)
Terrence Scerri (Hibernians)
Best Foreign Player
Daniel Mariano Bueno (Tarxien)
Christian Callejas (Hibernians)
Sylvano Comvalius (Hamrun)
Best Female Player
Eleonora Agliano (Birkirkara)
Ylenia Carabott (Sliema Raiders)
Rachel Cuschieri (Birkirkara)
Sonia Farrugia (Sliema Raiders)
Best Veteran Player
Gilbert Agius (Valletta)
Jeffrey Chetcuti (Sliema)
Brian Said (Marsaxlokk)
Best Futsal First Division Player 1st Div
Zeljko Anicic (Jeepers)
Nicholas Bilocca (Aluserv)
Alexander Ribic (White Eagles)
Bjorn Vassallo (Aluserv)
Best GFA First Division Player
Mario Azzopardi (Sannat)
John Camilleri (Sannat)
Mark Muscat (Sannat)
Best First Division Player
Steve Borg (Mosta)
Martin Deanov (Pieta)
Anthony Eviparker (Vittoriosa)
Best Second Division Player
Aaron Agius (Balzan)
Matthew Borg (Melita)
Michael Martin (Melita)
Best Third Division Player
Ayrton Buhagiar (Mdina)
Mark Camilleri (Siggiewi)
Alan Spiteri (Gharghur)
Categories with four finalists imply two or more players have received same amount of votes.
In view of some additional fine goals scored after the closing date to submit votes, of the Organizing Committee decided to discuss this award in more detail in another meeting which will be held later this week.
More details about the upcoming 8th edition and photo gallery of the previous editions can be obtained from www.maltafootball.com/awards
The Melita Malta Football Awards are supported by the Malta FA and all of its affiliated Clubs.
- The First Division Standing Committee has issued a statement urging a quick conclusion to the case regarding the alleged bribery attempt before the BOV First Division clash between St. George's vs Vittoriosa Stars.
The statement signed by secretary Bjorn Vassallo, the First Division Standing Committee unanimously urges the authorities to accelerate the process so that a final decision could be taken.
"The final First Division table could be affected by the conclusion of this inquiry, both in terms of promotion and relegation," says the statement.
The committee urged the board which investigates corrupt practices to decide on the matter as it feels that the inquiry on the case, which took place five months ago, was too lengthy for one reason or another. They said that now it's time for a decision which would safeguard the interest of the First Division League, clubs and football in general.
- The Malta Futsal team, under the charge of Michal Striz, will be engaged in two friendly encounters against the Under-21 team from Czech Republic tomorrow, Monday 25th and Tuesday 26th May.
These two matches are part of an ongoing programme of preparation for our national team and should prove useful for our coach to assess the form of his players, at the same time introducing new faces in the squad in view of the commitments of the national team in the coming months.
The matches will be played at the Corradino Pavilion, Paola with 20.15 and 19.15 kick-offs on Monday and Tuesday respectively. The referees for the first match will be Gjerjgi Bitri and Paul Apap while those of the second match will be Franco Cachia and Norman Vella.
The Malta squad is as follows:
Goalkeepers: BALDACCHINO Brian - Jeepers FC, SPITERI Marvin - Southenders.
Players: AGIUS Daren - Paola Stars, BORG Tyron - Southenders, BUGEJA Paul - Southenders, CATANIA Elton - Jeepers FC, ELLIS Timothy - Pentagon Properties, GATT Jeanbert - Aluserv, CIANGURA James - Pentagon Properties, MAGRO Robert - Naxxar Motors, MUSCAT Rowen - Birkirkara, SALIBA Xavier - Pentagon Properties, VELLA Steven - Paola Stars
Sat 23
- Premier League Floriana vs Marsaxlokk 2-1, Birkirkara vs Sliema W. 0-0
- First Division Knock-Out Dingli S. vs Mosta 5-1, Pietà H. vs St. Patrick 1-3 aet
- The BOV Premier League title 2008/09 will be at stake on Sunday afternoon as Hibernians take on Valletta in a decisive clash for the championship, kick-off at 17:00.
The Paolites and the Citizens were undoubtedly the most consistent sides this season - exchanging the top spot between them throughout the season. Hibs had a better start to the season, maintaining a three-point gap over Valletta after the first four matches which included a 1-1 draw in a clash between the two on September 15 thanks to goals by Terence Scerri and Njongo Priso. However two defeats in three matches for Mark Miller's side allowed the Citizens to join them on top of the table in rounds 7 and 8. A draw for Valletta against Sliema allowed the Paolites to regain sole leadership which they enjoyed for another three rounds of matches.
However a 2-0 win for Valletta over Hibs enabled Paul Zammit's side to take the lead on January 7 as goals by Gilbert Agius and Priso gave the Citizens three precious points. Four wins in the next five matches for Hibernians - dropping their only points in a draw with Floriana - put the Paola side back on top to finish the first phase on top with 41 points. Valletta, on the other hand, dropped four points in draws with Birkirkara and Qormi to end one point behind them.
Hibs and Valletta started the second phase with 21 and 20 points respectively. The Paolites registered comfortable wins over Marsaxlokk, Floriana and Sliema, defeating Birkirkara with two late goals. The Citizens, on the other hand, seemed to start losing ground as after an easy win over Sliema, they lost 1-3 to Birkirkara, were held in a goalless draw by eternal rivals Floriana and narrowly defeated Marsaxlokk 1-0. However in an other direct clash with Hibernians, Valletta won 2-1 - goals by Dyson Falzon, Paulo Massaro and Zeferino Borges Soares - to narrow the gap from six points to three.
The following week, Hibs were held in a 2-2 draw by Marsaxlokk while Valletta beat Sliema 3-0 and now just on point separated the two teams. A 2-0 win for Hibs over Floriana and a 4-1 win for Valletta over Birkirkara left a status quo but the Paolites were then held in a goalless draw by Sliema and Valletta beat Floriana 2-0. The Citizens had now regained the top spot with 39 points, one ahead of Hibernians.
The pressure was now on the Paolites but ironically, Valletta suffered a 1-2 defeat to Marsaxlokk and Hibs registered a comfortable 4-0 win over Birkirkara to move two points ahead of the Citizens.
At this point, a draw would be enough for the Paolites to secure the tenth title in the history of the club and the first one in seven years. Valletta, on the other hand, have to win to retain the title and win the twentieth championship. They are in the same situation as that of season 1997/98 when they had to win to win the title as they lied one point behind Birkirkara before the final decisive game against the Stripes. Valletta won 2-1 to win the championship.
The clash between Hibernians and Valletta will be putting against each other the best forward line - Hibernians with 73 goals in 27 matches against the best defence - Valletta with 18 goals in 27 matches. Valletta scored 50 while Hibs suffered 25.
- The Ground agreement with the MFA was recently signed by the Club's representatives together with the Sports Club Executive directors and by MFA President Dr Joseph Mifsud and other MFA Officials. The payment by the MFA for the cost of the artificial turf was also made during the occasion.
The Financial aid given to the Pembroke Athleta Football Club by the MFA has made it possible for the Club to upgrade its Ground with artificial turf. The grant given under the UEFA HatTrick Assistance Programme together with other financial aid from the Government organizations and plenty of volunteer work has made a dream come true for the Club.
This project concludes another phase in the Club's and the Government's master plan for the area which include further turf pitches, landscaping and a Multi purpose Sports Complex.
Fri 22
- In view of next Friday's U*BET FA Trophy final, Sliema Wanderers Supporters Club will be holding a rally for supporters on Monday 25th May at the club premises in Tower Road Sliema at 20:00.
Club president Steve Abela will be addressing the rally together with other committee members and players.
All Sliema supporters are encouraged to attend.
- Kalkara St. Joseph Youth Football Nursery is accepting applications from qualified coaches to join the Nursery technical staff for season 2009/2010.
Interested coaches should contact the Secretary Paul Bongailas on 7945 1523 or Head Coach James Camilleri on 99440154 or send an email on kalkaranursery@gmail.com by not later than Saturday 6th June.
- In view of the Quick-Keno Second & Third Division Knock-Out final which will be played on Friday at 16:45, Sta. Venera Lightnings will be holding a rally for supporters on Tuesday 26 at the club premises in St. Joseph High Road, Sta. Venera.
Club president Colin Calleja will be addressing all the supporters.
All supporters are urged to attend.
Thu 21
- Third Division Promotion Play-off Mdina K. vs Zurrieq 0-1, Naxxar L. vs Sta. Lucia 0-1
- Valletta F.C. is organizing a Rally for all Supporters next Friday 22nd May 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.
- Hibernians are aiming for their first Championship title in seven years and the Ultras will be shouting them on every step of the way.
On Friday night, the Ultras will be at the Hibs ground to give the players one final lift before Sunday’s big match.
The Ultras are calling for all supporters to join them at the Hibs Ground at 6:15pm and support their team as they seek one last supreme effort.
- The very popular Futsal Festival for schools, held in Malta in recent weeks and which was extended to Gozo last Wednesday, again proved to be an event that was characterised by a spirit of enjoyment by all participants representing schools from both islands.
The Fun Festival, was organised and run by the MFA, the Sports Promotion Unit within the Secretariat for Youth and Sport and the Physical Education Officer from the Education Department. This event was also made possible thanks to the Gozo FA.
The matches between Maltese and Gozitan Schools, played in an atmosphere of fair play, attracted most attention at the Oratory Grounds at Victoria.
These were followed by matches between teams comprising randomly-picked players from Maltese and Gozitan schools. This added to the spectacle of fun and gave the participating students the opportunity to gain new experience when being part of a team alongside new faces.
In conclusion, the PE Education Officer, thanked all those who made the event possible, not the least the students, and underlined the importance of physical activity and a healthy lifestyle, along with the consumption of a lot of water. He hoped that many more of these events will bolster more interest in the game and give the students the opportunity to enjoy themselves in sport.
General Soft Drinks, sponsors of the MFA in this activity, then presented a token to all participants.
Wed 20
- Paola Hibernians Youth Nursery will be holding another edition of the Under 12 Chevrolet International Tournament at the Hibs Ground, Corradino between Saturday 23 and Sunday 24th May.
The tournament will be played on a league format. The teams taking part are Paola Hibernians, Mosta Youth Nursery, Hamrun Spartans Youth Nursery, Melita Youth Nursery and two Italian teams ASD Pantanelli and Noto Calcio.
The tournament kicks-off on Saturday at 18:00 and continues on Sunday at 08:30. The presentation will be held at around 12:15 by Mira Motors Sales Ltd sales manager Brian Attard.
- San Gwann FC is accepting applications from qualified coaches to join the Nursery's technical staff for season 2009-2010.
Interested coaches should send their CV to canaries@nextgen.net.mt by not later than Saturday May 30.
- No Hibernians and Valletta players will be suspended for next Sunday's big clash from the BOV Premier League which will decide the title. In fact, only one player - Marsaxlokk's Carlo Mamo was suspended by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner on Wednesday.
Mamo is therefore ruled out of the game against Floriana on Saturday.
Other players to be suspended include Mauro Bonnici and Pierre Grima (Mqabba) and Emanuel Cutajar (Sta. Lucia). Larsen Agius (Hamrun) was banned for one match in the Youth League.
Tue 19
- Gozo - Super Cup Sannat L. vs SK Victoria W. 1-1 (5-4 pen)
- After the successful Futsal Festival for Schools held over the past weeks the Malta Football Association and the Sports Promotion Unit (SPU) within the Secretariat of Youth and Sport will be moving to Gozo for a friendly Fun Festival on Wednesday, 20th May.
The activity, also made possible thanks to the collaboration of the Gozo Football Association, will have the Physical Education Officer within the Education Department along with representatives from the SPU and the MFA present. The venue will be the Oratory grounds at Victoria, Gozo.
The Fun Festival is intended to re-activate the enthusiasm generated by the participants in the Festival finals held in Malta and extend that spirit to the sister island. The programme will include matches between Maltese and Gozitan schools followed by matches between mixed teams.
During the event, General Soft Drinks will provide all the participants with Kristal Water and a small token.
Mon 18
- Premier League Birkirkara vs Hibernians 0-4
Sun 17
- First Division St. George's vs San Gwann 7-2, St. Patrick vs Senglea A. 3-2
- Third Division Championship Decider Gharghur vs Gzira U. 0-3
- Third Division Gudja U. vs Santa Lucia 0-2
Sat 16
- Premier League Sliema W. vs Floriana 3-0, Valletta vs Marsaxlokk 1-2
- First Division Pietà H. vs Mqabba 2-1, Dingli S. vs Rabat A. 4-1
Fri 15
- Gozo Cup Victoria H. vs SK Victoria W. 2-5
- Tarxien Rainbows have confirmed coach Noel Coleiro.
This will be the third season for Coleiro with the Rainbows. Two years ago, he had joined the club leading them to promotion to the Premier League. This year, Tarxien went a step further as they retained their Premier League status for the first time in the history of the club.
The Rainbows registered six wins and five draws, including a draw with champions and leaders Valletta. The only teams against which Tarxien failed to win any points were Birkirkara and Hibernians.
- Former FIFA international referee Joe Attard and Albanian coach Ilir Pelinku were arraigned in court on Friday over the alleged bribery attempt which took place before the UEFA Cup first qualifying round first leg between Marsaxlokk and Croatian side NK Slaven Belupo in July.
Attard and Pelinku are being accused of trying to bribe Marsaxlokk goalkeeper Saviour Darmanin on July 16. Both denied their involvement and are pleading not guilty.
The case will continue on May 25.
Thu 14
- Hamrun Spartans Youth Nursery will be organising a Football Summer School between June 1st and July 31st.
The summer school is open for girls and boys who will be divided into four age-groups: GROUP 1 for those born 2003/2004 - Monday; GROUP 2 for those born 2001/2002 - Tuesday; GROUP 3 for those born 2000/1999 - Wednesday; GROUP 4 for those born 1997/1998 - Thursday. The summer school lasts nine weeks and consists of a training programme and free games every Friday. Over the 9-weeks programme, the boys/girls will have the chance to practice various skills and to enjoy themselves in
related fun games. Each Friday, children will have the chance to practice what they learned in a game situation.
Training sessions will be held at the Victor Tedesco Stadium and the nursery's 5-a-side pitch between 17:30 and 19:00.
The summer school is once again being organized by the Nursery Head Coach Marco Grech, a qualified UEFA B Coach, and this year with the inclusion of the other Head Coach, Stefan Sultana, UEFA A Coach, who will be assisted by other qualified nursery Coaches so that during training sessions, every boy/girl will have individual attention.
The summer school is open for all boys/girls who attend our nursery and also for their friends who want to participate.
The fee is € 50. Each boy and girl will be given a free school t-shirt, shorts and a water bottle, a free Gatorade in each session and free participation in the Friday Football Festival.
Applications open at the nursery premises from 6:00 p.m. onwards from Monday 11th till Friday 29th May. Phone 9944 8035.
Wed 13
- Central Coast Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson is hopeful he will be eligible to play for Malta in next month's 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Sweden in Gothenburg. Hutchinson would join Manny Muscat who plays for Wellington Phoenix, also in Australia's A-League.
Speaking to the official website of the Asian Football Confederation www.the-afc.com, the 29-year-old midfielder said "We are just trying to get through all the paper work which has been a little bit tougher than what we first expected. My wife is acting as my secretary and she has been doing all the work for me so hopefully she can get it all sorted with the Maltese government and the Maltese consulate in Australia so I’ll be free to play for them."
Hutchinson is eligible to represent Malta through his grandmother who hails from Malta.
"Obviously my first preference would have been Australia but now the opportunity with Malta has come up I think it is the right time in my career. In international football I’ll be playing against some of the world’s best players and some of the greatest international teams."
Hutchinson, who began his playing career in 1996 with hometown club Gippsland Falcons, was called-up for a training camp with Australian national team in January 2008. However, the two-day gathering of A-League players gave Hutchinson little time to influence Australia coach Pim Verbeek.
"It was tough because obviously when I went in I was hoping to get a call up but it didn’t happen for me. Australia has a lot of very good players in midfield and when you are competing against international players there’s not much hope but I was hoping with the A-League camp I could have got a call-up but it didn’t work out that way and I guess it just wasn’t meant to be.
"But it added a bit more desire to play international football and this Maltese call-up couldn’t have come at a better time. I was very positive about being eligible to play for Malta and when they called me I was pretty excited about it."
- Three players will be missing the next game from the Championship Pool after being handed a one-match ban by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner while another six players were suspended following last Friday's relegation decider.
Joseph Zerafa (Birkirkara), Zeferino Paulo Borges Soares (Hibs) and John Mintoff (Sliema) were banned for one match. Zerafa and Zeferino are ruled out of Monday's game between Birkirkara and Hibs. Mintoff, on the other hand, is ruled out of the game against Floriana on Saturday.
Msida defender Stacey Vella was banned for three matches while Adrian Farrugia, Kurt Magro and Pedro Dos Santos Calcado (all Msida), Andrew Decesare and David Camilleri (both Tarxien) were handed a one-match ban.Ivan Casha (Hamrun) was also banned for one match.
In Division 1, Heathcliff Schembri was suspended for one match.
Three Lija Athletic players were suspended after their last league game. Jean Paul Scerri was banned for five matches while Colin Ciantar was suspended for four matches. Chris Grech was suspended for one match together with Marsa's Shawn Farrugia.
Gzira United team manager Jason Camilleri and Alex Mangion (Qrendi) were banned for one match. In the Youth League, Josmar Vassallo (St. George's) was also suspended for one match.
- The Marsaxlokk Nursery committee is accepting applications from qualified coaches to join the Nursery's technical staff for season 2009-2010.
Interested coaches should send a detailed CV to Mr. Brian Pantalleresco not later than the 15th June 2009 to Marsxlokk F.C. Nursery, 33 Mayflower Hse Triq il-Galjazz Marsaxlokk.
- Fgura United Football Club and Nursery is accepting applications from qualified coaches interested in joining the club setup for season 2009/10.
All those interested are invited to contact the club secretary Stefan Vella on 79707390 or fgurautd@maltanet.net
- Paola Boys Hibs Ultras are organizing a special Corteo on Friday May 15th.
The Corteo will begin at the Hibs club in the Paola Square at 5.45pm and will then march to the Hibs ground where the players will be training.
The game against Birkirkara on Monday is a vital must win match and the Ultras will be doing their best to encourage the players. The Ultras are asking all supporters to join them at the Hibs club with flags, banners, horns and anything that will add to the spirit of the Corteo.
Tue 12
- Gozo - Sportika Cup Xewkija T. vs Xaghra U. 1-2
- Maltese Australian defender Manny Muscat will be part of the Malta national squad which will travel to the Czech Republic and then Sweden for a friendly match and a 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier respectively next month.
Muscat who plays for Wellington Phoenix had joined the club from Green Gully last season qualifies for the national team due to Malta being the home country of his mother and father.
Speaking to Australian media, Muscat said "It (selection) came completely out of the blue and was a real surprise. It's just amazing to get the call-up to represent Malta. The Phoenix gave me the opportunity to play top-level football and I'm incredibly grateful. I've worked hard to grab that opportunity with both hands," said Muscat.
"Last year was an amazing year for me with Phoenix and this is a little bit unreal. It's all quite new but I'll just do what I always do and play to the very best of my ability," he said.
Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said everyone involved at the club was thrilled for Muscat.
"It's a fantastic opportunity for Manny to be able to play international football at that level against some of the best players in the world."
"We plucked him out of the VPL with Green Gully and gave him the opportunity," he said. "He did very well and has got a fulltime contract this season. He's worked hard and he deserves it - he's the type of guy who is level-headed and has demonstrated his desire to excel."
- Sheffield Wednesday will be playing two friendly matches against two local clubs when the Championship side visits Malta for a training camp in July.
The Owls will fly to Malta on Saturday, July 11 with matches against local opposition to take place on Monday 13 and Thursday 16. The names of the local teams have not been revealed yet. Sheffield Wednesday will leave Malta on July 18.
The previous week, Sheffield United, fresh from a new sponsorship agreement with the Malta Tourism Authority will also be in Malta. The Blades' pre-season tour will take place between July 6 and 10.
Sheffield United reached the Championship Play-off Final after defeating Preston North End in the semi-finals with a 2-1 aggregate score. At Wembley, they will be facing the winner of the other semi-final between Reading and Burnley.
- The Vittoriosa Stars Youth Football Nursery is receiving applications for qualified coaches willing to join the Nursery for the 2009/2010 season.
Interested coaches should contact Gerry Ellul on 79429165 or send an e-mail on aud1015@maltanet.net
- Senglea Youth Football Nursery is receiving applications from qualified coaches willing to join the nursery for season 2009/2010.
Interested coaches should contact Stephen Spiteri on 79373836. Alternatively one can send an email on sengleanursery@hotmail.com All applicants will be acknowledged.
- The Malta Football Association is striving hard to boost the level of football coaching in our island. In fact, after the recent successful organisation of a Futsal Coaching Course, it will be organising yet another coaching course of a very high level over the coming days, once again under the auspices of FIFA.
The next course in programme is a Women's Football Coaching Course which will be held at the Centenary Hall between Friday 22nd and Sunday 24th May 2009.
Vanessa Martinez, a FIFA Women's Football Instructor, will be travelling to Malta to extend her expertise to the local participants of this Course. A former element of the Mexican Women's National Team, she has played for several women's football teams in Mexico, USA and Germany. Currently, she is an active player of the German Team Leipziger FC 07.
A current PhD Student in Sports Science with specialisation in the 'Physiological Demands of Women's Football' at the University of Leipzig, she has also completed a Master of Arts in Kinesiology with Specialization in Exercise Physiology at the University of Texas, Austin USA.
Applications forms for this course can be downloaded from the MFA website. Closing date for applications is Wednesday 20th May 2009. Applications forms, duly completed, are to be returned to the MFA Technical Centre.
Mon 11
- Premier League Hibernians vs Sliema W. 0-0
- Gozo Cup Nadur Y. vs SK Victoria W. 0-4
Sun 10
- First Division San Gwann vs St. Patrick 4-1, Mosta vs Vittoriosa S. 0-2
- Second Division Birzebbuga SP vs Zebbug R. 6-3, Mgarr U. vs Balzan Y. 0-5
- Third Division Section A Mdina K. vs Luqa SA 1-1, Qrendi vs Gharghur 2-2
- Gozo Cup Victoria H. vs Ghajnsielem 2-0
Sat 9
- Premier League Marsaxlokk vs Birkirkara 2-2, Floriana vs Valletta 0-2
- First Division Mqabba vs St. George's 4-4, Senglea A. vs Dingli S. 0-5
- Second Division Marsa vs Sta. Venera L. 2-5, Naxxar L. vs Lija A. 2-2
Fri 8
- Premier League Relegation Decider Msida SJ vs Tarxien R. 1-1 aet (4-5 pen)
- Third Division Section A Kalkara vs Gudja U. 1-3
- Third Division Section B Siggiewi vs Gzira U. 0-3
- Gozo Cup Nadur Y. vs Xaghra U. 4-2
- The Sliema Nursery committee is accepting applications from qualified coaches to join the Nursery's technical staff for season 2009-2010.
Interested coaches should send a detailed CV to Mr. Mark Pace not later than the 8th June 2009 to Sliema Wanderers F.C. Nursery, National Pool Complex, Triq Tereza Spinelli, Gzira or phone on 79378126.
- Tarxien Rainbows player Denni Rocha Dos Santos was chosen as the BOV Player of the Month for the month of April 2009. This honour was a fitting reward for his contribution to his team in their bid to retain their place among the elite of Maltese football.
Dos Santos may not be a prolific scorer for Tarxien as he is mostly deployed behind the strikers. However, his three goals, all against Hamrun Spartans in April, two in their 5-1 victory on 5th April, and the other when the teams shared two goals 20 days later, were worth their weight in gold as they helped the Rainbows recover ground they had lost in the first phase of the competition.
Karl Spiteri, Manager Corporate Branding and Quality at Bank of Valletta presented the BOV Player of the Month Trophy to Rocha. The Ursuline Sisters in Tarxien were chosen by the player to benefit from the cash donation linked to this award.
Thu 7
- Eighteen awards will be at stake in the eighth edition of the Malta Football Awards which will be held on Tuesday 2nd June at the Grand Hotel Excelsior, Floriana. For the fourth consecutive year, this event will be supported by Melita and therefore this year's edition will be named Melita Malta Football Awards.
Addressing a press conference, the Chairperson of the Organising Committee of the Melita Malta Football Awards, Sandro Micallef said that the awards which have now become synonymous with the gala event will be presented once again but in order to keep with the tradition of introducing one or more new awards in every edition, Events Services launched a new award - the Best Third Division Player together with an Award for the Public's Favourite Player Award where the general public can vote via SMS number 5061 4914 for any player in any division in the local leagues. Those who participate can win several prizes including two trips for any European destination, flights and accommodation included thanks to Hamilton Travel.
Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport Mr Clyde Puli said that the fact that the Malta Football Awards have now entered the eighth edition confirm how year after year, this event is gaining more popularity and this was only thanks to the organisers and those who believed in this initiative which are now part of the local sports calendar. He said such awards help identify role models for youngsters, hence encouraging a wider participation in sport. The Parliamentary Secretary thanked the Kunsill Malti ghall-iSport, the Malta Football Association and Melita for their continuous support which is essential for the organisation of such events.
Malcolm Briffa, Head of Marketing of Melita remarked that it is of great satisfaction for the company to support once again the Malta Football Awards which will be yet again broadcast live on Melita Sports. He added that Melita is committed to continue with its live transmissions of local events in addition to the traditional and popular international leagues. A case in point the live transmissions of the BOV Premier League which is very popular with Melita Sports subscribers.
On the other hand, Grand Hotel Excelsior General Manager Norbert Grixti said they were backing such initiatives as it was of utmost importance to support the local game.
The awards for the Eighth Edition of the Melita Malta Football Awards are therefore:
- 1. Best Goalkeeper
- 2. Best Defender
- 3. Best Midfielder
- 4. Best Striker
- 5. Most Promising Youngster
- 6. Best Coach
- 7. Best Foreign Player
- 8. Best Local Player
- 9. Best Goal of the Season
- 10. Best Women's League Player
- 11. Best Futsal First Division Player
- 12. Best Melita GFA First Division Player
- 13. Best First Division Player
- 14. Best Second Division Player
- 15. Best Third Division Player
- 16. Best Veteran Player (aged 35 and over)
- 17. Special Career Award/Awards
- 18. Public's Favourite Player Award
Catherine Xuereb, Production Manager of the Melita Malta Football Awards said that once again those entitled to vote are people involved in the local game, namely the presidents, coaches and captains of the ten Premier League clubs and over 45 journalists who followed the BOV Premier League 2008/09. However voting for the best players in the Futsal League, Women's League, First, Second and Third Division and the GFA Melita First Division was reserved for officials, coaches and captains from the respective clubs. Sports correspondents who follow these leagues were also invited to vote. The number of votes amounted to 270.
On behalf of Events Services, director and organiser Alan Cutajar thanked the media for their support and thanked the sponsors which are making this edition possible, namely Melita, General Soft Drinks, Grand Hotel Excelsior, Firetech, Camilleri Wines, MFCC, Bank of Valletta, Kunsill Malti ghall-Isport, ETC, Hamilton Travel, Sports Experience, John's Garage, XFM, Aristocrat and maltafootball.com.
The gala event, will be broadcast live on Melita Sports 702 and also on the Information Channel. The latter channel will be open for all Melita subscribers. There will be a repeat during the following week on Favourite Channel. The event will be presented by sports journalists Catherine Xuereb and Clinton Buhagiar, presenters of local football sports programmes Kontrattakk and L-Argument respectively who will be inviting distinguished personalities on the stage to announce the winners and present the different awards.
No tickets will be available on sale and attendance is strictly by invitation.
More details and statistics about the previous editions of the Malta Football Awards are available at www.maltafootball.com/awards and www.eventsservices.tv
- Sheffield United's ground-breaking sponsorship deal with the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) will see the Blades' pre-season tour of Malta take place from 6-10 July, 2009. The tour will coincide with the Isle of MTV concert, taking place on Malta on 8 July. With headline acts including Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga and Metro Station, the combination of Football, Fun, Music and Sun promises to be a big draw for British holiday makers visiting the popular Mediterranean island.
Sheffield United Chief Executive Jason Rockett said: "The combination of football and music will make this a fantastic occasion for Sheffield United fans, Maltese locals and international visitors alike, and will provide another great reason to visit Malta. Sheffield United will soon be announcing a series of exciting promotions that we will be staging in conjunction with the MTA. The campaign will be designed to engage football fans, families and students so they can make the most of 'Football, Fun, Music and Sun' on the island."
Sheffield United is currently working closely with the MTA to finalise details of the pre-season tour. In addition to any fixtures, the Club is working on plans to host a number of unique and exciting fan-related events. These range from a Blades Beach BBQ party and exclusive opportunities to meet the team, through to autograph sessions and the chance for fans to attend open training sessions. Full details will be announced as soon as plans are confirmed. The squad will also be supporting a number of community initiatives on the pre-season tour, including visits to a number of the island's schools and hospitals.
Last month the Blades squad enjoyed a visit to the island for warm weather training as part of their end-of-season preparations. The players used the opportunity to visit hospitals and schools, providing football tuition to the local children. Sheffield United now looks forward to the pre-season tour of Malta that will take place from 6-10 July 2009.
Also, the proposed ‘Steel City Cup’ will not take place this year. As stated in a MTA release, the opportunity was looked into, but it was decided the game would not be possible due to logistical reasons.
In fact, the Malta Tourism Authority announced that both Sheffield United Football Club and Sheffield Wednesday Football Club will be holding separate training camps in Malta this summer.
MTA CEO Josef Formosa Gauci said that “This initiative further cements the excellent relationship that has developed between the MTA and Sheffield United, which is now being extended towards the city of Sheffield as a whole. In this respect, we are delighted to welcome Sheffield Wednesday to the island of Malta for the first time”.
The possibility of a football derby being played in Malta between the two Sheffield clubs has been looked into, but for logistical reasons it will not be possible this summer.
- The fifth in a series of lectures for the Member Club Secretaries organised the MFA Committee for Administrators this season was held this week at the Centenary Hall, Ta' Qali, with another satisfactory attendance.
Bertie Muscat, an eminent and experienced local sporting personality, delivered an interesting and informative lecture about the Regulations of Sports Persons (including Clubs and Nurseries) with the Malta Sports Council as per LN63 of 2008. Apart from making reference to the mission statement of the Kunsill Malti ghall-Isport, he talked at length about the rights, benefits and requirements every applicant must have in order to be eligible for assistance from the KMS.
During the second part of the session, the Club Secretaries were informed of the status and licensing requirements Member Clubs must have for Season 2009/10 the application forms/documents of which must be duly submitted back to the Association by the 1st June, 2009.
Ceasar Scerri, Chairman of the MFA Member Clubs Licensing Board, stressed upon the time-frames and strict deadlines which must be adhered to when submitting applications while Mario Gauci, Club Licensing Director, explained in detail the whole licensing procedure, as monitored by UEFA, which has now been in force during the past decade.
- The President of the Republic, H.E. Dr George Abela, and former President of the Malta Football Association between 1982 and 1992, is now Patron of the MFA. This is in line with the Association’s Statute which stipulates that the President of the Republic of Malta is automatically appointed Patron of the Association.
It is indeed an honour for the Association to have Dr Abela, a connoisseur of football and a person who rendered great service to this sport in our country, as its Patron.
Under the able stewardship of Dr Abela and with the indefatigable support of the then vice-President, Dr Joe Mifsud, the MFA made new inroads in football,, heralding the start of important changes which completely changed the face of the Maltese game. Progress was made in administrative matters, in infrastructure of the MFA playing facilities, particularly the upgrading of the National Stadium, and above all a well-needed new vision for the national team as the professional scheme was introduced.
In 1992, Dr Abela felt he could serve the country in the political sphere, but left the Association with a lasting legacy, which has since been enriched by Dr Mifsud and his team.
It is against this background that the MFA welcomes back the knowledgeable and highly-respected Dr George Abela as Patron of the Association.
Wed 6
- Matthew Camilleri, Kenneth Spiteri, Daniel Mariano Bueno and Denni Rocha Dos Santos are all ruled out of next Friday's relegation decider as they were among the eight Premier League players to be suspended by the MFA Disciplinary Commissioner.
Matthew Camilleri was banned for five matches after being sent off towards the end of last Sunday's Relegation Pool clash between Msida and Tarxien.
Msida defender Kenneth Spiteri and Tarxien foreigners Daniel Mariano Bueno and Denni Rocha Dos Santos were banned for one match.
The other players to be suspended were Ivailo Sokolov (Birkirkara), Ivan Woods and Roderick Bajada (Sliema) and Joseph Farrugia (Qormi).
Sokolov is ruled out of the game against Marsaxlokk on Saturday while Woods and Bajada will be missing the next game against Hibernians on Monday.
In Division 1, Alan Borg and Miguel Francica (San Gwann), Mark Pullicino (St. Patrick), Johann Spiteri and Lucian Scerri (Vittoriosa) were suspended for one game.
Trevor Thomas (Balzan), Josmar Vella (Gozo), Simon Mizzi (Mgarr) and Matthew Calascione (St. Andrews) were handed a one-match ban in Division 2 while Adrian Psaila (Luqa), Antoine Muscat (Xghajra), Matthew Pisani (Zejtun) and Jeffrey Camilleri (Zurrieq) were suspended for one match in Division 3.
In the Youth League, Carl Calvagna and Edson Falzon (Balzan), Noel Vassallo (Mgarr), Terence Vella (Pietà), Steve Buhagiar (Tarxien) were suspended for one match.
- Malta climbed one place in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking for May and is now ranked 150th.
Among the other European countries, Malta is still ranked 49th. Just ahead of Malta are Georgia (110, down 1), Estonia (113, up 2), Montenegro (117), Armenia (125, down 1), Luxembourg (126), Kazakhstan (137, down 1) and Azerbaijan (142, down 2). Lying behind Malta are Liechtenstein (156, down 1), Faroe Islands (165, up 1), Andorra (196, down 1) and San Marino (202).
Malta is scheduled to play a friendly match against the Czech Republic in Jablonec on June 5. Five days later, Malta faces Sweden in Gothenburg in another 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Tue 5
- Gozo - Promotion/Relegation Play-Off Kercem A. vs Xaghra U. 4-1
- Malta was drawn in Group B with France and Turkey in the football tournament of the XVI Mediterranean Games which will be held in Pescara between June 26th and July 5th. The draw was held on Tuesday in Chieti.
In these games, Malta will be represented by the Under-20 national team, under the guidance of coach Edwin Camilleri.
The three group matches will be played at the Stadio Comunale in Teramo.
The complete draw was as follows;
Group A (L'Aquila): Italy, Greece, Syria.
Group B (Teramo): France, Malta, Turkey.
Group C (Lanciano): Libya, Montenegro, Morocco.
Group D (Francavilla): Spain, Albania, Tunisia.
The first phase is expected to be played between June 25th and 29th. The winners of the four groups will play in semi-finals. The final is scheduled for July 5th at the Stadio Adriatico in Pescara.
Four years ago, in the 25 edition of the Mediterranean Games which was held in Almeria, Malta lost 0-2 to hosts Spain and 0-5 to Turkey. Spain and Turkey eventually reached the final of the tournament with Spain claiming the gold medal thanks to a 1-0 win.
In the fourth edition which were held in Naples in 1962, Malta also took part, losing the four matches in Group B against Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey and Spain.
- As part of the preparation ahead of the remaining BOV Premier League matches, the Hibernians Supporters Club, in collaboration with the Paola Boys Hibs Ultras, will be organising a mass rally for all Hibs supporters on Sunday 10th May at 11:30 at the Paola Youth Centre Hall in Paola Square.
The rally will be addressed by captain Mario Muscat, coach Mark Miller and president Tony Bezzina.
Supporters and members of other clubs and organisations based in Paola are encouraged to attend.
Mon 4
- The Malta Football Association announced that the BOV Premier League relegation decider between Msida St. Joseph and Tarxien Rainbows will be played on Friday May 8th at 19:30 at the Hibernians Ground.
A decider was necessary as Msida, Tarxien and Hamrun Spartans all ended their commitments on sixteen points after Hamrun lost 0-2 to Qormi and Msida and Tarxien shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw.
According to competition rules, direct encounters were taken into account. Hamrun Spartans were relegated as they had the worst record and now Msida and Tarxien will be contesting the relegation decider.
Sun 3
- Premier League Hamrun S. vs Qormi 0-2, Msida SJ vs Tarxien R. 2-2, Sliema W. vs Marsaxlokk 1-3
- First Division Mosta vs Pietà H. 1-3, Vittoriosa S. vs Rabat A. 5-2
- Second Division Melita vs Gozo 3-0, St. Andrews vs Mellieha 1-2
- Third Division Section A Ghaxaq vs Xghajra T. 4-0
- Third Division Section B Kirkop U. vs Zurrieq 2-2
Sat 2
- Premier League Hibernians vs Floriana 2-0
- First Division St. Patrick vs Mqabba 1-1, Dingli S. vs San Gwann 2-2
- Third Division Section A Fgura U. vs Sirens 0-3
- Third Division Section B Santa Lucia vs Attard 2-0
- The Nigerian national team is expected to visit Malta for a short training camp ahead of an important 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Tunisia on June 20 in Tunis.
According to a report on Goal.com, a top Nigeria Football Federation official said "The Super Eagles will put finishing touches to their preparation for the match against Tunisia in June in Malta. The plan is for them to leave for Malta immediately after the home game against Kenya on June 7."
"Malta is an ideal choice, both in terms of having a similar weather with Tunisia and also the fact that it is less than an hour by air to Tunis."
Tunisia lead the qualifying group after they recorded an away win over Kenya last month. Nigeria and Mozambique lie two points.
Fri 1
- Second Division Balzan Y. vs Naxxar L. 5-3, Zebbug R. vs Mgarr U. 2-2
- Third Division Section A Luqa SA vs Qrendi 0-0
- Third Division Section B Pembroke A. vs Zejtun C. 1-0
- Gozo - Second Division Decider Xaghra U. vs Xewkija T. 2-3
- Gozo - Gozo Cup Kercem A. vs SK Victoria W. 0-1
- The Malta Football Association will consider applications from constituted clubs to participate in the BOV Third Division League next season 2009-2010.
Applications, which must include a copy of the Club Statute and a list of Committee Members with their respective Identity Card number, must reach the MFA General Secretary at the Association’s Headquarters, Millennium Stand, Floor 2, National Stadium, Ta’ Qali, ATD 4000 by not later than Monday 18th May 2009.
Late applications will not be considered.
- The Council of the Malta Football Association approved on Thursday the regulations for the National League 100 Anniversary Cup - a one-off competition which will mark hundred years of league football. In fact, the first ever league championship was played in Malta in season 1909/10.
The competition will be played on a knock-out basis and will be played throughout season 2009/2010. It will be open for all member clubs.
The first round of the competition will be played between Third Division clubs so as to reduce the total number of participating teams to 44 after the completion of this round. These teams join the twelve Second Division teams in the second round.
From then onwards, there will be no seeding as the twelve teams which qualify will join the twenty Premier and First Division clubs in an open draw for the last-32 stage.
In all matches, except for the semi-finals and final, if the result is still draw at the end of the 90 minutes, there will be no extra-time and penalties shall be taken in accordance with the Competition Rules.
Besides the cup, the winner of the competition together with the finalist will receive commemorative plaques and the two sets of eighteen players in the final will be receiving gold or silver-plated medals.
- Malta international goalkeeper Justin Haber has landed a top community award with his English Championship club.
He has been crowned Sheffield United’s Community Player of the Year. It is the first season United, sponsored by the Malta Tourism Authority, have created the awards for players as the club’s community programme continues to grow.
Haber, along with the Community Young Player of the Year Aymen Tahar, was involved with a number of activities with local people during the season, including Playing for Success, Kickz and Fit for School. The duo were presented with their awards by The United Initiative’s Mark Todd and head of community Sue Beeley at Bramall Lane.
Sue said: “This is the first year we have presented these awards and the two players richly deserve the recognition. It is an opportunity for us to show our thanks to Justin and Aymen, who have spent many hours of their own time supporting the club’s community and charitable activities.
“They have attended and been well-received at a number of special presentations and events, helping to put smiles on many young faces. We hope that presenting Community Player and Young Player of the Year awards will become an annual event at Sheffield United.”
Haber joined United in the summer of 2008, while Tahar, a regular for the Blades reserves this season, made his first-team debut as a substitute against Hull City in the FA Cup in February 2009.
- Draft new regulations on bribery and betting regarding football matches were presented for discussion during the meeting of the Council of the Malta Football Association which was held on Thursday.
These regulations were discussed at length but council members demanded more time to discuss them further at club level due to the implications that these could have on club officials as they would be held personally liable for any civil damages caused to any member club or the association. A vote is expected to be taken during the next Council meeting which will be held towards the end of May.
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 match in which his team is involved and 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 corruption and/or who are proved guilty of having failed to report to the MFA authorities any attempted corrupt act which comes to their knowledge and and/or who are proved guilty of having bet 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.
These regulations state that 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. MFA Officials, Council, Board or Committee members, licensed coaches, licensed referees, licensed players’ agents, national team players and MFA coaching staff will also be subject to pay the Association the amount of €100,000 as pre-liquidated civil damages in case that these are proved guilty of having been involved in attempted or completed corrupt acts or practices.