August 2009
Mon 31
- Second & Third Division Knock-Out Luqa SA vs Zurrieq 0-1, Fgura U. vs Santa Lucia 0-2
Sun 30
- Premier League Tarxien R. vs Birkirkara 0-2, Qormi vs Sliema W. 1-0
Sat 29
- Premier League Marsaxlokk vs Dingli S. 1-0, Valletta vs Floriana 6-0
Fri 28
- Floriana presented their new signings which include two new foreigners on the eve of this weekend's big clash from the BOV Premier League.
Adressing the media, Floriana president John Camilleri said that season 2009/10 will be a great challenge for Floriana FC. The main objective will be to have a squad which will be able to compete at the highest level of Maltese football. The goal for this year is to qualify to represent Malta in one of the European competitions.
Goalkeeper Jurgen Micallef and midfielder Roberto Brincat returned with the club while new signings include Bernard Paris, Clifton Ciantar and Christian Cassar. Thanks to contact established by manager Roddy Collins, Floriana signed English striker Donovan Simmonds and Nigerian striker Wasiu Akanni-Sunday. The other foreigner is Argentine midfielder Pablo Doffo.
Akanni-Sunday started his career in Poland with Szczowianka Jaworzno and then joined FC Vilnius in Lithuania. In 2007, he moved to England where he played for non-league side St. Albans City. Following a successful trial with Colchester, he joined them on a one-year deal and was then loaned to Luton Town in January.
Camilleri furthered that this year Floriana FC will be celebrating the 100th Anniversary of winning the first ever Maltese Football Championship. The Club will soon announce a programme of activities to commemorate this great achievement. The Floriana FC Committee managed to engage Mr Roddy Collins from Ireland to be our Manager/Coach for the coming season. Mr Collins started his assignment on the 1st July 2009. Collins will be flanked by assistant coach Tony Alamango and Goalkeepers Coach Ernest Barry.
The President thereafter suggested that, Floriana FC is indebted to a number of sponsors who are helping the team again this year. They are Fexco, Robertson’s, and Eurosport. The kit sponsor is Azzurri of Dublin Ireland.
It is the aim of Floriana FC to inaugurate new premises during the coming year. Floriana FC, one of two of the oldest clubs in Malta deserve to have a premises of their own where they can have a proper administrative base, have an up to date archive to store the Club records and an appropriate place where to house numerous trophies and club honours. Floriana FC is appealing to the Government to help the club obtain an adequate building for this purpose.
John Camilleri thereafter stated that Floriana FC are proud to present a state of the art new website which can be found at www.florianafc.com
Floriana manager Roddy Collins claimed that he is happy with the current squad and is likewise happy with the new signings. He suggested that the attitude and professionalism of the players is superb and this augurs well for the rest of the season. The new FFC manager reckons that Floriana does not require a quick fix solution, but requires great work coupled with a pre-determined work plan if it is to achieve great things in the future. Collins held that he is not new to such scenario, since
when he took over at Bohemians FC and Carlisle United he found volatile foundations and clubs which have been broken down due to their financial status, but managed to erect solid foundations and in no time won silverware. Collins held that the squad has responded to his requests and everything and everyone within the club is working well - according to plans. A positive and professional structure is important, if Floriana is to return to the winning fore.
Thu 27
- Sheffield United have allowed goalkeeper Justin Haber to join Hungarian sister club, Ferencvįros. The Maltese international, who played in United’s friendly game against the Trinidad and Tobago Under20s team on Wednesday evening, will now link up with Bobby Davison's Fradi ahead of the weekend.
Sheffield United's unique international model includes Ferencvįros, China's Chengdu Blades, and Australia's Central Coast Mariners. As part of this international network, Justin Haber will join Ferencvįros to increase his European experience, whilst benefiting his international career.
Ferencvįros has been the country’s most successful team with 28 Hungarian League titles and 20 Hungarian Cup Final wins. In 1965, they became the only Hungarian club to lift a European Cup, what is known today as the UEFA Cup.
Blades Manager Kevin Blackwell has confirmed his faith in Justin Haber continuing the strides he has made since coming to Bramall Lane a year ago. The goalkeeper, who has joined Ferencvįros on loan until Christmas, has made a great impression at United and the Blades boss insists that Haber's move will benefit both parties:
"There is no doubt that Justin has worked very hard in training and matches over here, and his handling, kicking and athleticism have improved tremendously.
"But getting games has been difficult and playing is vital for him. In Hungary he will get match practice, at the right level, with a big club.
"He will be with some familiar Blades faces over there, both at management and player level, and his performances will be monitored and assessed by our coaches so he could still be brought back."
- Qormi FC secured the services of Brazilian striker Camilo Da Silva Sanvezzo, better known as Camilo. The 21-year old striker will be the club's third foreigner along defender Ramon Dos Santos and striker Alfred Effiong.
During the player's presentation, Qormi FC president Matthew Fenech said the comittee was very cautious in signing a third foreign player after that a number of players were on trial with the club. His signing was made possible thanks to the financial support of Jesper’s Bakery who is one of the club's main sponsors for this season. Fenech thanked all the sponsors who are supporting the club.
Among other clubs, Camilo Da Silva Sanvezzo played with Oeste Paulista - the same club for which Ramon Dos Santos played. Last season, he was on the books of Corinthians Alagono. Camilo thanked the club for having faith in him and said that although he has been in Malta for a short time, he feels well in Malta, thanks to the support of Ramon Dos Santos, the committee, technical staff and the rest of the players. He said that he will be doing his best to help the team reach its aims.
Also present for the presentation were committee member Anthony Thorne, Team Manager Jesmond Zerafa, Jesper Nielsen and Joseph Mifsud, director and financial director of Jesper's Bakery.
Camilo will be making his debut for Qormi on Sunday in the BOV Premier League game against Sliema Wanderers.
Wed 26
- The main objective of newly-promoted Dingli Swallows is that of being a competitive side in order to retain their Premier League status.
During the presentation of the new signings at the Fapi Motors showroom, coach Jesmond Zammit said that after three successful seasons, the club managed to secure promotion to the top division for the first time in 61 years and the Swallows now aim at extending their stay in the Premier League.
Zammit said that despite its limitations, the club did its best to strenghten the squad which now includes both young and experienced players.
The club was strengthened with the signing of Ivan Cassar (Hibernians), Dino Cachia (Msida S.J.), Shawn Tellus (Marsaxlokk), Matthew Borg (Qormi), Justin Muscat u Dylan Zarb (Valletta), Roderick Briffa (St. Patrick) and Kevin Borg (Hamrun).
Roderick Spiteri, Kurt Formosa and Chris Azzopardi joined the club on a permanent move while Chris Muscat and Clint Caruana will stay on another season with the club on loan from Rabat Ajax and Sliema Wanderers respectively.
Dingli also signed three new foreigners namely, Brazilian duo Renato Conceicao and Andre Rocha da Silva and Nigerian striker Joseph Okonkwo. Haruna Doda will also play for the club after aquiring a Maltese passport.
Vice-president Mark Chetcuti thanked the team's technical staff which is made up of coach Jesmond Zammit, youths coach Kevin Asciak, team manager and goalkeepers' coach Reggie Cini and former players Jason Cachia and Bruce Genovese.
Chetcuti said that the club is now aiming at improving its facilities, hoping that works will be completed by the end of the year. He thanked the MFA, the Minister for Resources and Rural Affairs, Architect David Vassallo and others who are helping the club in this project, He also thanked sponsors Famalco Group, li huma l-isponsors ewlenin, Kwik Mix Ltd, Sullivan Maritime, SVS Leisure, Poligas and Errea.
On behalf of Famalco Group, who is the club's main sponsor through Proton, David Vella said that with the extension of the sponsorship agreement the company was confirming its support to the development of sport in Malta.
- Zurrieq landed this year's edition Fgura United Pre-Season Tournament after emerging as winners over Senglea Athletics. The game ended in a 1-1 draw with Zurrieq getting the better of the Athletics winning the penalty shoot out 3-2.
The game was a tight affair with Zurrieq showing the best ideas in the first period and Senglea reacting in the second. Chris Farrugia hit the upright for Zurrieq on the 40th minute but 4 minutes later Zurrieq opened the score thanks to Steve Azzopardi. Senglea drew level on 54th minute through a Timmy Thomas penalty kick. The game remained in balance to the end.
In the penalty kicks, the two goalkeepers stole the limelight saving half of the kicks taken. Skipper Julian Farrugia of Zurrieq in goal saved three out of five while Carsten Dimech's two saves in Senglea Athletics goal were not enough to tilt the balance in their favour.
Fgura Utd FC would like to thank the participating teams, all referees appointed to officiate matches, the Hockey Ground administrators and all those involved in the organization of this year's tournament which once again lived up to the expectations as one of the much awaited pre-season tournament.
Daniel Bogdanovic - Barnsley FC (England - League Championship)
Malta international striker Daniel Bogdanovic scored twice as Barnsley defeated Reading 2-1 away from home in the Carling Cup second round on Tuesday.
It was Bogdanovic who put Barnsley ahead on 56 minutes but Rob Kozluk's 90th-minute own goal had cancelled out the lead. The game seemed destined for extra-time but when Alex Pearce pulled down Kayode Odejayi, the Maltese forward struck home from the spot to earn the win.
Justin Haber - Sheffield United (England - League Championship)
Justin Haber played for the Blades' reserves in 4-1 defeat to Leicester City.
Andre Schembri - SK Austria Kärnten (Austria - Bundesliga)
Andre Schembri was in the starting line-up for Austria Kärnten as they earned their first point in a goalless draw with Ried. Schembri was substituted seven minutes from time.
Andrei Agius - SS Cassino (Italy - Lega Pro Seconda Divisione Girone C)
Andrei Agius returned to Cassino's starting line-up as they claimed three points in a 2-0 win away from home over Manfredonia in the first league match.
John Hutchinson - Central Coast Mariners FC (Australia - A-League)
John Hutchinson played the whole ninety minutes as Central Coast Mariners were held in a goalless draw by Sydney FC. The Mariners are now third on five points.
Manny Muscat - Wellington Phoenix FC (New Zealand - Australian A-League)
Manny Muscat played the whole ninety minutes as Wellington Phoenix earned a point in a 1-1 draw with Brisbane Roar in the Hyundai A-League. They are fourth in the table, five points behind leaders Gold Coast United.
Udo Nwoko - Panthrakikos F.C. (Greece - Super League)
Udo Nwoko was not included in the Pantharakikos squad for their first league game during the weekend against Iraklis.
- Powerade Cup Mqabba vs Zebbug R. 1-0, Sta. Venera L. vs Hamrun S. 1-3
Tue 25
- Vittoriosa are not agreeing with the decision taken by the Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices of the Malta Football Association and plan to appeal from the decision. They are also considering taking legal action against the same board.
This was revealed during a press conference which was held on Tuesday at Couvre Porte, Vittoriosa.
The club's legal adviser Dr Edward Gatt said that unlike other alleged cases of corruption, in their case, the club official has been denting his involvement throughout the case and there was no admission. Dr Gatt explained that the court procedures have not been completed yet and therefore the case is still sub judice.
He revealed that Vittoriosa submitted a request to attend the MFA Executive Council meeting which was held on Monday but their request was turned down.
Dr Gatt went on to explain why the club does not agree with the decision. He said the case was prejudiced since the same members who carried out the investigations, took the decision against the club. Another reason was the fact that the whole case was based on the credibility of the person who accused the Vittoriosa official. He said that throughout the hearing of the case, the person in question was not summoned in front of the board and only the evidence given by this person in court was produced.
For these reasons, Vittoriosa Stars respects the MFA's decisions but does not agree with the board's decision and will appeal against the decision.
Dr Gatt revealed the possibility that legal action could be taken against the board on the basis of lack of fair hearing of the case. He said the board was autonomous and independent from the association and therefore the rule which states that member clubs cannot take the association to court does not necessarily apply.
Club secretary Gerald Ellul said they will now seek advice from the association regarding their commitments with players and especially the foreign players since they had just signed three new foreigners and only one can play in Division 1.
- Following the media release issued yesterday evening regarding the decision delivered by the Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices, the MFA is hereby clarifying to eliminate any doubts which were expressed earlier today that the statute provides Vittoriosa Stars FC with a right of appeal on the merit and on the fine in front of the Board of Appeal.
The Association’s rule lays down however that in case of a punishment other than a fine, such punishment is to be implemented notwithstanding the right to appeal such punishment. This does not mean that the club cannot appeal such part of the decision as well.
- Fgura Tournament Zurrieq vs Senglea A. 1-1 (3-2 pen)
Mon 24
- After the Executive Committee analysed the decision which the Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices finalised on Monday the 24th of August 2009, which states that Vittoriosa Stars FC are to be relegated with immediate effect to the First Division, and which the rules of the MFA state that in case of appeal this will not have an effect on the decision taken by the Board, except in cases of monetary fines, Vittoriosa Stars FC will not form part of the BOV Premier Division League 2009/10, which therefore will be composed of nine (9) teams, and instead Vittoriosa Stars FC will form part of the BOV First Division league 2009/10 which thus will be composed of eleven (11) teams.
Following this decision a number of changes will have to be made to the fixtures of the BOV Premier Division League 2009/10 and the BOV First Division League 2009/10.
This decision thus nullifies the match between Vittoriosa Stars FC against Sliema Wanderers FC played on Saturday 22nd August 2009 except the disciplinary actions taken in said game.
The Executive Committee decided that Vittoriosa Stars FC are to be given the opportunity to participate in the Maltco Lotteries First Division Knock-out Competition.
The Executive Committee also decided that the BOV Premier Division League match between Valletta and Floriana should be played on Saturday 29th August 2009 at 7:00pm and not as previously announced.
- Mellieha Challenge Cup San Gwann vs Mellieha 2-1
- Powerade Cup Sta. Venera L. vs Zebbug R. 4-0, Hamrun S. vs Mqabba 2-3
- As part of the activities marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Malta Football Coaches Association, a three-day coaching seminar for all coaches will be held between Friday 4th and Sunday 6th September. The seminar will be conducted by Italian coach Renzo Ulivieri. Details about the activities were revealed during a press conference which was held at the Le Meridien Hotel, St. Julian's.
MFCA president Lolly Aquilina spoke about the association's foundation. He said that thanks to Joe Griffiths, a coaching course for teachers was organised in 1957 by the Education Department in conjunction with the Malta Football Association. This was held at the Nicholl Ground in Gzira. Two years later, he managed to set-up the Malta Football Coaches Association which was all made up of members which had qualified as coaches two years earlier. One of the founding members - Anthony P. Scicluna is still an active member of the association and is a member of the committee.
Aquilina said that over the past fifty years, the association organised several courses and seminars. The association is recognised by the Malta Football Association and in fact, its instructional meetings are recognised as part of the requirements for coaches to obtain coaching licenses.
The MFCA, which has recently been accepted as a member association within the MFA, is a member of the European association for football coaches - the AEFCA, which was earlier known as UEFT.
The programme of activities marking the 50th anniversary kicked-off on August 18 with a mass and an instructional meeting for coaches by Fr Hilary Tagliaferro.
On Wednesday 2nd September, the association will be donating footballs to boys at two charitable institutions - St. Patrick in Sliema and St. Joseph's Institute in Sta. Venera.
The main event will the three-day coaching seminar, led by Italian coach Renzo Ulivieri. Ulivieri is the current president of the Associazione Italiana Allenatori Calcio. In his career as coach, he coached well-known Italian clubs including Empoli, Sampdoria, Cagliari, Bologna, Napoli, Parma, Torino, Bologna and Reggina.
He will arrive in Malta on Thursday 3. The seminar, which will be held at St. Aloysius College, is scheduled for Friday between 18:00 and 21:00, Saturday and Sunday between 09:00 and 12:00. A presentation dinner will be held on Sunday at 20:00 during which the coaches who attend the seminar will be presented with a attendance certificate and memento.
Another activity will be a visit by the MFCA committee to the President of the Republic, His Excellency Dr George Abela on September 22.
Meanwhile a souvenir magazine, edited by Anthony P. Scicluna, was published on this occasion.
- After a successful career as a player, former Malta international female footballer Maria Coppola has now turned to coaching young players.
Coppola started playing football locally and then moved to the USA after winning a Women's Soccer scholarship during 1996-2000. She also played in France during the period 2004-2007. While in France, she had a trial with top French side Paris St. Germain. In Malta, she had played for several clubs including Rabat Ajax, Lija Athletic, Melita and Hamrun Spartans. She then had to quit playing in June 2007 while in France.
Maria Coppola is now working hard towards passing her experience to young players. In the past season, she coached the Under-7s at the Balzan Youths Football Nursery and for the coming season, she will continue to work at the same nursery.
Balzan Youths, whose senior team won promotion to Division 1 and Under-17 side won promotion to Section A, are currently working hard on a very important project which means a lot for the future of the club and nursery. This is the installation of artificial turf at the Lija-Balzan ground. A 'joint-venture' between Balzan Youths and Lija Athletic.
Sun 23
- Premier League Floriana vs Qormi 1-1, Hibernians vs Marsaxlokk 3-1
Sat 22
- Premier League Dingli S. vs Tarxien R. 1-4, Sliema W. vs Vittoriosa S. 3-0
- Malta futsal champions White Eagles earned a point in the final match from Group E of the UEFA Futsal Cup preliminary round mini-tournament at the S. Darius & S. Girenas Sport Center in Kaunas, Lithuania as they shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw with Madriu of Andorra.
White Eagles therefore placed third due to a better goal difference than the Andorran side.
The two goals arrived in the final five minutes of the game with Gregori Molina putting Madriu ahead on 35 minutes and Dragan Milovanovic equalising twenty seconds from time.
- Headhunters FC, a local futsal club, are currently looking to recruit players for the forthcoming futsal season.
The target is to put add onto an existing squad of young players who are below the age of 24 with the objective of creating a young experienced team that can challenge for promotion and develop together as a squad.
Players must be above 16 years of age and have an amateur status with the MFA.
Any players or goalkeepers interested may contact the club on rgaerty@gmail.com or 99473316.
Fri 21
- Premier League Birkirkara vs Valletta 1-3
- Mellieha Challenge Cup San Gwann vs Rabat A. 4-0, Mellieha vs Attard 3-1
- St. Patrick FC Youth Nursery will be organising a tournament for youths in the Under-17 and Under-15 categories. The tournament is in memory of Daniel Aquilina and Ruben Diacono.
Taking part in the two categories will be Paola Hibs, Floriana, Rabat Depiro and hosts St. Patrick.
The tournament gets underway on Monday.
- On behalf of Marsaxlokk FC, president Robert Micallef and secretary Peter Carabott, filed an official letter in the First Hall of the Civil Court, asking Police Inspector Angelo Gafa to appear in front of the Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices of the Malta Football Association after failing to turn up in front of the board on three occasions.
Marsaxlokk stated that Inspector Gafa allegedly told Marsaxlokk team-manager Peter Hartshorne that if he pleaded guilty before Magistrate Antonio Mizzi he would get a suspended sentence but he risked a jail term if arraigned before Magistrate Silvio Meli.
Referring to evidence given by Valletta FC president Victor Sciriha, Insepctor Gafa travelled to Geneve, Switzerland for the draws of the UEFA competition together with a delegation of Sliema Wanderers.
Inspector Gafa was accredited by Birkirkara FC to visit the UEFA headquarters and spent his free time with officials of Valletta, Sliema Wanderers, Hibernians and Birkirkara.
The Marsaxlokk officials stated that his behaviour was unethical and irresponsible, considering that from evidence before the Court of Magistrates which was also presented in front of the board of corruption of the MFA, he was still investigating cases of corruption.
Marsaxlokk warned him that they could hold him responsible for possible damages sustained by the club.
- The Malta Under-17 side defeated Estonia 1-0 in a friendly match at the MFA Training Grounds, Ta' Qali on Friday.
Estonia started the match very aggressively holding the initiative for the first ten minutes. However the locals soon took hold of the midfield and started to build up pressure on the Estonian defence.
Christian Briffa scored the all-important goal after twenty minutes following a great move by the Maltese which involved four players, freeing Briffa who finished cooly.
MALTA Yenz Cini, Brandon Gatt, Zach Muscat, Christian Grech, Steve Agius, Terrence Agius, Brandon Muscat, Ian Scerri, Matthew Hammett, Sacha Borg, Christian Briffa. Substitutes: Malcolm Vella, Michael Camilleri, John Micallef, Dylan D'Agostino, Siraj Eddin Arab, Ryan Dalli, John Debono.
- Marsaxlokk signed five new players as they start this year's Premier League campaign with the main objective being that of securing a place in the European competitions.
The Southseasiders signed goalkeeper Glen Zammit from Gudja United and obtained Roderick Bajada on a one-year loan from Sliema Wanderers. They also have three new foreigners, namely Martin Deanov - who however qualifies as a home-grown player, Bulgarian defender Emil Yantchev and defensive midfielder Florent Raimy.
Glen Zammit, who was on loan with Floriana last season, signed a three-year contract. For Roderick Bajada, Marsaxlokk will be his fourth club after starting his career with Hamrun Spartans and playing for Msida St. Joseph and Sliema Wanderers. Although he joins the club on loan, Marsaxlokk have an option on the player at the end of the season.
Martin Deanov has been playing in Malta since he was still a fourteen year old. He made his Premier League debut with Pietà Hotspurs in 1998 and after returning to Bulgaria a couple of years later, he moved back to Malta in 2005, once again joining the Hotspurs. Emil Yantchev returns to Malta after leaving the island in November to join a club in Northern Cyprus. He had joined Birkirkara in summer 2005 and after one year with Marsa, he returned with the Stripes.
Florent Raimy is an international player from Benin although he holds a French passport. He played for Benin in the Under-20 World Cup and in the African Nations Cup.
Speaking during a press conference on Friday, president Robert Micallef said that the club worked hard to strengthen the team this summer. He said they managed to find the right players to replace those who left the club.
Since last summer, foreigners Julio Alcorse, Marcelo Pereira and Renato Conceicao are no longer with the club. Kevin Sammut joined Valletta while Christian Cassar joined Floriana on a one-year loan.
Robert Micallef is confident that with the squad at the disposal of coach Patrick Curmi, Marsaxlokk have what it takes to secure a place in European competitions. For this season, Curmi will be assisted by Clive Mizzi as assistant coach and Etienne Mercieca as goalkeepers' coach.
The Marsaxlokk president said that the availability of the excellent facilities at the new ground in Marsaxlokk is making life easier for the team's preparation. He thanked the MFA and UEFA for their support and revealed that the ground will be inaugurated in January, possibly by UEFA president Michel Platini who will be visiting Malta for the UEFA Congress.
Marsaxlokk coach Patrick Curmi agreed with Micallef with the regards to the new signings, saying that they were the ideal replacement for the players who are no longer with the club.
Curmi said that although results in pre-season friendlies were not good as one would expect, the players are physically prepared and are ready for the clash with champions Hibernians on Sunday.
For the Marsaxlokk coach, it is of utmost importance to secure a place in the Championship Pool as early as possible and then concentrate on obtaining a place in UEFA competitions.
When asked whether the alleged corruption case influenced their transfer campaign, president Robert Micallef said the new players who joined the club, did so because they knew how the club worked. In fact, they managed to sign the players they wanted, except for Ryan Darmanin.
The Marsaxlokk president is convinced the club will come out unharmed as they were not involved in a way or another in any case of corruption. He said the most important thing was that the truth emerges.
Micallef thanked the sponsors, namely Konica Minolta, K Shipping Agency Ltd and C&M Gypsum together with technical sponsor Eurosport who are sponsoring all Marsaxlokk teams including the youth nursery.
- Birkirkara secured the services of Spanish goalkeeper Jorge Mora. He signed a one-year contract and could make his debut in the game against Valletta this evening.
Mora turned out for the Stripes in the Carlsberg Tournament which they won on a better goal-difference than Hibs and Qormi.
Jorge Mora is third signing for Birkirkara besides Dutch striker Sylvano Comvalius and Under-21 international midfielder Carl Pulo.
Danish defender Ronni Hartvig is the other foreigner at the disposal of Birkirkara coach Paul Zammit.
- Christian Cassar returned with Floriana just one year after leaving the club to join Marsaxlokk. Cassar joins the Greens on a one-year loan.
After making his debut for the Greens in season 2000/01, he soon gained a regular place in their starting line-up and was eventually appointed captain.
Cassar is the third signing for Floriana this summer after goalkeeper Bernard Paris who joined the club on a one-year loan from Birkirkara and English striker Donovan Simmonds. Marlon Briffa, who was on loan with Floriana from Mqabba, will be staying for another season with the club while Jurgen Micallef and Roberto Brincat, who were on loan with Vittoriosa Stars and San Gwann respectively, are back with the club.
- The Tarxien Rainbows Youth Nursery recently organized its Annual Presentation Night at Marsa Sports Complex. For this occasion besides the parents and relatives of kids attending the nursery, several distinguished guests were present. The Local Mayor of Tarxien Mr. Paul Farrugia and his wife, Mr Joe Pace representing the Youth Football Association and his wife and Mr & Mrs Emmanuel Tabone of Freedor Ltd who always sponsored all the trophies for this occasion.
All the kids, boys and girls who were present for this occasion were each given a trophy and all those who distinguished themselves as most promising players, most dedicated and best players of each age category were awarded with special trophies.
Mr. Louis Zammit, the Nursery Chairman was presented with a special memento for his hard work and dedication in the nursery. Mr. Michael Degiorgio, the nursery Head Coach, presented a memento to Mr. Emmanuel Tabone of Freedor Ltd as an appreciation for his continuous support as being the main sponsor of this occasion.
Mr. Mark Aquilina, the nursery secretary presented a set of sports books to Local Mayor Mr. Paul Farrugia to be placed on the shelves of the Tarxien Local Council Library opened recently.
In the meantime, the nursery is accepting new recruits boys and girls from 5 years of age till 12 years for the new season. Girls from the age of 13 are also encouraged to join the Girls team which for the second year running will be taking part in the second Division of the MFA Women’s League. Interested applicants are to call at the nursery from Monday to Saturday to fill up an application or to call the Nursery Secretary Mr. Mark Aquilina on mobile no. 79061442.
- Goalkeeper training for season 2009-2010 will start again on Wednesday 26th August. This will be the seventh year since the school was founded.
For the last three years, the school also took part in professional training camps in Italy. In fact, the aim of the school is not only to improve their goalkeepers but also to give them opportunities overseas.
The coaching staff is made of some of the best goalkeepers on the island like Mario Muscat, Omar Borg, Matthew Camilleri, Alex Camilleri, Ivan Casha, Manuel Bartolo and Simon Grech.
All interested keepers who would like to join the school may contact Mario Muscat on mobile number 79620045 or email keeperschool1@hotmail.com or visit the website www.keeperschool.com
Thu 20
- The Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices met on Thursday morning to continue its investigation into the Marsaxlokk FC/Hartshorne corruption case. The case has been deferred to Wednesday 2nd September when the board will hear the last witnesses and will adjourn for the decision.
A verdict regarding the possible Vittoriosa FC/Ancilleri corruption case is yet to be taken.
- Newly-promoted Vittoriosa Stars will be aiming at retaining Premier League status on their return to the top division after an absence of over thirty years.
Addressing the media during a press conference on Thursday, new Vittoriosa Stars president Erskin Vella said the club was looking forward towards this challenge and it was of utmost importance for all within the club to keep their feet on the ground in order to achieve the target of retaining Premier League status.
Secretary Gerald Ellul said that after winning promotion at the end of last season, the committee started working hard in order to strengthen the team ahead of the Premier League campaign. The first objective was that of appointing a new coach. He said it was not easy an easy task and at one point, the club considered appointing a foreign coach. However Winston Muscat and Saviour Darmanin were entrusted with the job of coach and assistant coach respectively.
Winston Muscat coached St. Patrick in Division 1 after working within the MFA Technical Centre. On the other hand, this will be the first appointment for Darmanin at club level.
In order to strengthen their squad, Vittoriosa signed no less than fourteen new players. They signed Jeffrey Chetcuti, Beppe Muscat and Henry Bonello from Sliema Wanderers, Jonathan Xerri, Gary Inguanez, Kurt Formosa and Clayton Micallef from Hibernians, Paul Camilleri from Birzebbuga St. Peter's, Brandon Bonnici from Ghaxaq, Mauro Brincat from Floriana and Elton Vella from Sannat Lions. All players join the club on loan, except for Chetcuti.
The club also has three new foreigners, namely German striker Henry Isaac, Serbian defender Nikola Vukanac and Czech defender Martin Hrubsa.
Nigerian-born Isaac, who is 28 years old, played in Germany for Eintracht Frankfurt and St. Pauli, Aris in Greece, Hapoel Tel Aviv in Israel, Sandefjord in Norway and Fram Reykjavik in Iceland. Twenty-four year old Vukanac played for FK Zemun in Serbia and Vranov nad Toplou in Slovakia while twenty-five year old Hrubsa played for FC Brno in the Czech Republic and SV Ziersdorf in Austria.
Goalkeeper Alex Camilleri will spend another season with the club while Pierre Aquilina, Justin Camilleri, Johann Spiteri, Lucien Scerri, Sammy Piscopo and Charles Cachia make up the rest of the squad.
Gerald Ellul said that with the players at the disposal of coach Winston Muscat, the club has what it takes to reach its objective.
For Winston Muscat, this will be the first experience of top-level football. He said that he is looking forward towards this new adventure and thanked the committee for giving him this opportunity.
Muscat said the committee did its best to satisfy his requirements - both in terms of training facilities as they are making use of the new Marsaxlokk Ground and in terms of new signings. He said the squad includes a number of players who are keen to show they deserve to play in the Premier League.
The Vittoriosa coach concluded by saying that the team will be doing everything possible to secure Premier League status.
Vittoriosa mayor John Boxall spoke in detail about the lack of facilities in Vittoriosa. He said that education and sports have always been one of the main items on the agenda for the local council.
Boxall said that the council has been requesting the provision of adequate facilities for the past seven years and has been seeking investment for this purpose. He said that the council had already pledged the sum of € 70,000 for this purpose.
The Vittoriosa mayor explained that the council aimed at turning the ground in Fortini into an artificial turf pitch with an underground car-park over three floors. He said that revenue from this car-park would then be used to maintain the artificial turf pitch. Boxall stressed that among the several projects being carried out or which are due to be carried out in Vittoriosa, the football ground is one of the top priorities for the council.
Vittoriosa president Erskin Vella thanked the mayor for his support and for the council's support towards the nursery.
Finally Gerald Ellul thanked the local council and mayor John Boxall, technical sponsors Sportika, the coaches, players and members of the committee which secured promotion last season, former president Sandro Chetcuti, new sponsors Il Fornaio and committee member Joe Scicluna for working hard for the club.
Meanwhile Vittoriosa Stars have launched their new website www.vittoriosastars.com
- After weeks of conflicting reports regarding the future of Malta international striker Etienne Barbara, the saga seems to have come to an end with the twenty-seven year old striker agreeing to join Hibernians.
After returning to Malta from Germany, Barbara joined Sheffield Wednesday for a trial during their one-week training camp in Malta. He had the opportunity to play for the Owls in the mini-friendly matches against Dingli Swallows and Birkirkara. However Barbara was not offered a contract by the Championship side.
Floriana were the first local club to express their intention of signing the Malta international striker with manager Roddy Collins reportedly offering the player the option of linking him with a club in the UK in January.
However Barbara opted to join the Paolites who were keen to find a replacement for Terence Scerri who was transferred to Valletta.
Barbara started his career with Floriana, making his debut in season 1999/2000. Mid-way through season 2002/03, he moved to Marsaxlokk but after two years with the club, he joined Birkirkara. In summer 2007, Barbara signed for Sliema Wanderers but his stay lasted one year as last summer he moved to Germany where he played for SC Verl.
- Naxxar Lions FC Youth Nursery will be holding a special meeting on Sunday 6th September at 09:30 at the Naxxar Local Council Civic Centre to mark the start of the new season. Parents and children who attended the Nursery in the previous season/s are being requested to attend this very informative meeting, and anyone interested in bringing their child to join our Nursery is more than welcome to attend this meeting.
The Nursery is now housed at the recently-refurbished artificial turf pitch at ‘Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary School’, and has recently recruited a record number of qualified coaches, to further raise the football standards of the Nursery.
The Nursery is also pleased to confirm that the registration fee is of €75.00 per child, and that the first training-sessions will be held on Saturday 12th September.
For further information you may contact the club on 99826061 or 99497769.
- Malta futsal champions White Eagles suffered a second defeat in the second match from Group E of the UEFA Futsal Cup preliminary round mini-tournament at the S. Darius & S. Girenas Sport Center in Kaunas, Lithuania as they lost 9-7 to hosts Nautara Kaunas.
Arunas Steinas put Nautara ahead on 3 minutes and a minute later, Rikantas Buivydas doubled the score. Jovica Milijic pulled one back for White Eagles on the 7th but goals by Tomas Nemanis (8th), Marius Butenas (10th) and Paulius Smaryginas (10th) extended the lead to 5-1. Nebojsa Mijailovic scored the second goal for the Maltese side on 11 minutes but Nemanis and Virmantas Leme˛is added another two goals for the Lithuanian side. One minute from the end of the first half, Alex Ribic scored the third goal for White Eagles.
Two minutes in the second half, Darius Urbelionis made it 8-3 for Nautara. Nebojsa Mijailovic scored twice on 27 and 28 minutes to reduce the gap to just three goals - 8-5. Leme˛is made it 9-5 on the 30th but a brace by Alex Ribic in less than a minute narrowed the gap to two goals - 9-7.
- In collaboration with the Supporters Club, a rally is to be held on Thursday 20th August 2009 at the club's premises in Tower Road, Sliema at 8.30pm. During this event, all the club's new signings for season 2009/10 will be presented. Players, Technical Staff and committee members are also to attend.
Before the start of the rally, supporters will have the opportunity to become members of the club or renew their subscription for season 2009/10.
Wed 19
- Fgura Tournament Zurrieq vs Fgura U. 4-1, Naxxar L. vs Siggiewi 3-4
- Powerade Cup Hamrun S. vs Zebbug R. 3-1, Sta. Venera L. vs Mqabba 1-3
- Mellieha Challenge Cup Sirens vs San Gwann 1-6, Mgarr U. vs Mellieha 2-4
- The Malta Under-17 side suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to Estonia in a friendly match at the MFA Training Grounds on Wednesday.
This was the first outing for new Under-17 coach Charles Scerri, who is assisted by Ramon Zammit.
Richard Leht scored the only goal seven minutes from time.
Another friendly match against Estonia, which forms part of the Under-17 side's preparation ahead of the UEFA Under-17 mini-tournament which will be held in Andorra later this year, will be played on Friday, kick-off at 18:00.
- White Eagles suffered a narrow 4-3 defeat to Albanian side KF Tirana in the first match from Group E of the UEFA Futsal Cup preliminary round mini-tournament at the S. Darius & S. Girenas Sport Center in Kaunas, Lithuania.
Rigers Sina put Tirana ahead on 11 minutes but Alex Ribic levelled matters on the 18th. However a minute later, Arjan Nikolla made it 2-1.
Three minutes in the second half, Jovica Milijic equalised by Rigers Sina scored again for KF Tirana on 26 minutes. Alex Ribic restored equilibrium on 31 minutes but Sina scored again on 35 minutes to give the Albanian champions a 4-3 win.
WHITE EAGLES Vladmir Dmitrovic, Dragan Milovanovic, Boban Milovanovic, Alexander Ribic, Nebojsa Mijailovic, Dragan Jovanovic, Ranko Cerketa, Ilija Milivojsa, Jovica Milijic, ˇeljko Anicic.
- After securing their Premier League status by defeating Msida St. Joseph in a relegation decider, Tarxien Rainbows strengthened their squad with the signing of seven new players including two new foreigners. The new players were presented during a press conference at the club premises on Wednesday.
The new players at the disposal of coach Noel Coleiro, who has been confirmed as Tarxien coach for a third successive season, are Gianluca Calabretta, Ryan Mintoff, Stacey Vella, Kurt Magro, David Cassar and Brazilian duo Everton Antonio Pereira and Anderson Mendes Ribeiro.
Team manager John Vella said that after the relegation decider, the club offered coach Noel Coleiro to guide the team for another season and an agreement was reached between the two parties. He said that the next objective was that of strengthening the squad and the committee worked hard to achieve this target.
Club president Tony Cassar spoke about the past season, saying that their main objective was that of giving all teams a hard time and that of avoiding relegation. He said that wins over Marsaxlokk, Hamrun Spartans, Sliema Wanderers, Floriana and Qormi together with other positive results such as the draw with Valletta confirmed this.
Cassar said that negative results obtained during the first phase of the Premier League campaign enabled the club to analyse the problems and strengthen the weak points. In fact, the team's performance improved considerably. He mentioned the fact that a number of Tarxien players were voted Player of the Match, Denni Rocha Dos Santos won the Player of the Month award while Anthony Curmi and Daniel Mariano Bueno won the Malta Football Awards as Best Goalkeeper and Best Foreigner.
The Tarxien president said that now that the team has been strengthened, the Rainbows should aim at a top-six finish. He said that if the coach and players keep their feet on the ground, the club's objective could be achieved.
Tony Cassar that as part of the club's long-term plan, the policy was that of signing players on a permanent basis rather than signing them on loan. In fact, out of the players in squad, just three players are on loan from other clubs.
He concluded by thanking the members of the Supporters Club for setting up the club which will hopefully be the 12th man.
Tarxien coach Noel Coleiro thanked the committee and especially president Tony Cassar for having faith in him and offering him the possibility to lead the team for another season. He said that he was glad to work at the club due to the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the players. His objective is now to do better than last season.
Coleiro said that the team had an excellent pre-season, especially the one-week training camp in Rome - the training centre which hosts the Italian Under-21 side. He said that besides giving him the opportunity to prepare the team physically and tactically, this training camp was a good team-building exercise.
The players did well in the two friendlies against SS Cassino and Equipe Lazio. Back to Malta, Tarxien played friendly matches against Birkirkara (1-3), Marsaxlokk (2-1), Floriana (2-0) and Birzebbuga St. Peter's (5-0).
Noel Coleiro said the minimum objective for Tarxien was that of retaining Premier League status, saying that a top-six finish was difficult but not impossible.
The club signed a goalkeeper, three defenders, a midfielder and two strikers. David Cassar, a Hibs product, spent the last three years on loan with St. Patrick in Division 1. Ryan Mintoff joins the club from Hibernians after playing for Dingli last season while Stacey Vella and Kurt Magro join Tarxien from Msida, although Magro is a Valletta product. Calabretta spent the last couple of years with Mellieha and Mosta in Division 1.
Twenty-nine year old Everton Antonio Pereira played for America, Club Atletico Paranense, Corinthians, EC Taubate, CA Taquaritinga and Galo Maringa in Brazil, Unicao Torrensefil in Portugal, Tavriya Simferopol in Ukraine, FC Vilnius in Lithuania, Jagiellonia and LKS Lodz in Poland. He was voted the best player in the Lithuanian League for the season 2006-07 and was also voted best midfielder in the Polish League for the season 2007-08 whilst playing with Jagiellonia.
Twenty-eight year old Anderson Mendes Ribeiro, on the other hand, started his career in Brazil but moved to the city of Kharkiv in Ukraine in 2002 and since then played for the various clubs in the city, namely FC Arsenal Kharkiv, FC Helios Kharkiv, FC Metalist Kharkiv and FC Kharkiv.
Everton and Anderson will replace Everson Alan De Lima and Daniel Mariano Bueno. Everson was released while Bueno moved to Polish club Odra Wodzislaw.
David Camilleri and Denni Rocha Dos Santos, who had joined the club in January, had been retained while Michael Falzon, Kevin Borg, Clifford Gatt Baldacchino and Ramon Schembri who were on loan returned with their clubs. Malcolm Buttigieg was released while Andy Mangion joined Birzebbuga St. Peter's on loan.
Team-manager John Vella thanked the sponsors - Cassar Ship Repair Ltd, Moog Chassis Parts and Dolceria Primavera.
- Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery will be opening applications for the registration of boys and girls aged between 5 and 16 years on Monday 24 August. Nursery officials will be at the Tony Bajada Centre in Alexander Street (next to the five-a-side pitch) every day between 6.30pm and 8.00pm as from this date.
Children registering for the first time with the nursery are to bring four passport-sized photos and an original government birth certificate. All children have to be accompanied by at least one of the parents presenting an ID card.
The registration fee will be €140 for the whole season. In the case of the registration of another brother/sister, the fee would be an extra €50 only. The registration form may be downloaded from the nursery website www.hamrunnursery.com.
The first activity of the season will be a BBQ night to be held at the Splash And Fun Park on Saturday, 22 August at 8.30pm.
All nursery coaches will be present. The price for the BBQ will be €14 for adults and €7 for children. All those attending the BBQ will be presented with a gift from Vileda. Anyone who would like to make use of the facilities at the Splash and Fun Park may do so by paying separately in the morning or in the afternoon. Invitation to this event is open to everyone, including children who would like to join the Hamrun nursery together with their parents.
The Hamrun nursery contact numbers are 79496363 (for registrations) and 79478302 or 99492976 (for the BBQ event). The Hamrun nursery may also be contacted on email addresses info@hamrunnursery.com or mariodebattista@onvol.net
- Birkirkara FC Youth Nursery will be organizing a recruitment week, for those already enrolled and those who wish to join this season, on Thursday 10th and Friday 11th September between 17:00 and 18.30 daily and Saturday 12th September between 09.30 and 11.30. During this period, Nursery qualified staff coaches and administration will be available at the EuroSport in Birkirkara to welcome boys and girls born between 1st January 1995 and 1st January 2005.
Training sessions will commence during September, these will be held at the artificial turf pitches situated at the Infetti Training Grounds, B. Bontadini Str, Birkirkara. All children commencing training for the next season must pay at the recruitment week.
All children enrolling with payment during the recruitment week will receive gifts.
Affiliation Fees are as follows:
Boys born on 2005: € 65.00 (Training Session a week)
Boys born on 2004 and 2003: €120.00 (2 Training Sessions a week)
Boys born on 2002, 2001 and 2000 €135.00 (2 Training Sessions a week)
Girls born between 01/01/2000 and 31/12/1993 €135.00 (2 Training Sessions a week)
Boys born on 1999, 1998,1997,1996 and 1995 €150.00 (3 Training Sessions a week)
All players born on 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 and 1999 must take with them 4 passport size photos and an original government birth certificate.
One of the first events organised by the Nursery is the meeting between parents and nursery administration and coaches. This meeting is an informational session that gives parents the opportunity to know what's ahead for their child's football season. The meeting is scheduled for Friday 18th September 2009 at St. Theresa Girls Junior Lyceum, Mriehel, in front of Infetti ground, at 19.00.
All parents and children (new and returning) must attend the meeting held prior to the start of the season.
For all other enquiries, please contact the Nursery on 21443422, 27443422, 99468248 or email nursery@birkirkarafc.com
Tue 18
- Fgura Tournament Swieqi U. vs Kirkop U. 2-1, Marsa vs Senglea A. 1-3
- After the recent prestigious 2-0 victory over Georgia by the senior national team in a friendly match at Ta' Qali and the 2-1 away win by the Under 21 side against Albania in another friendly encounter this time on foreign soil, it is the turn of our cadets in the Under-17 category to face continental opposition. This will be provided by the Estonia Under 17 team who are currently in Malta.
The teams will be playing two friendly matches over three days, the first on Wednesday and the second on Friday.
The Under 17 team, under the charge of Charles Scerri assisted by Ramon Zammit, will be playing against the Estonians as part of their preparation for the impending competitive commitments Malta has in this category.
It will be the first outings for Scerri and most of his boys and one augurs them well as the new cycle at this level is about to start.
The matches will be played at the MFA Training Grounds at Ta’ Qali, with the kick-off at 19.30 on Wednesday and 18.00 on Friday.
The players selected by Scerri and Zammit are:
goalkeepers Yenz Cini (Valletta), Carlos Dimech (Pietà);
defenders Steve Agius (Qormi), Lee Galea (San Gwann), Christian Grech (Piet`), Matthew Hammett (Hibs), John Micallef (Hibs), Zach Muscat (Pietà), Malcolm Vella (Hibs);
midfielders Terence Agius (Pietà), Sacha Borg (Floriana), Dylan D'Agostino (Valletta), John Debono (Naxxar), Brandon Gatt (Hibs), Ian Scerri (Hibs), Vjorn Sultana (Waterford - ENG);
forwards Siraj Eddin Arab (Valletta), Christian Briffa (Hibs), Michael Camilleri (Birkirkara), Ryan Dalli (Sliema).
- Floriana signed English striker Donovan Simmonds. He joins the club as the second foreigner along Argentine midfielder Pablo Doffo.
The twenty-year old striker started his career with Charlton Athletic before moving to Coventry. He spent the last fifteen months on loan with Gillingham and Kilmarnock respectively.
So far, the Greens signed Bernard Paris from Birkirkara and retained Marlon Briffa. Jurgen Micallef and Roberto Brincat are back with the club after being on loan with Vittoriosa Stars and San Gwann respectively.
Mon 17
- Mellieha Challenge Cup Rabat A. vs Sirens 5-2, Attard vs Mgarr U. 4-2
- Fgura Tournament Naxxar L. vs Fgura U. 3-0, Zurrieq vs Siggiewi 1-0
- The complete set of fixtures for the BOV Premier League, BOV First Division, BOV Second Division and BOV Third Division leagues were released on Monday.
The fixtures for the Maltco Lotteries First Division Knock-Out and the quick-Keno Second & Third Division Knock-Out were also published.
The BOV Premier League kicks-off this Friday and the first phase will come to an end on February 15. Five games will be played per week, except for the usual breaks due to national team commitments, the U*BET FA Trophy and the National League 100 Anniversary Cup.
The second phase kicks-off on February 27 while the final league match will be played on May 5.
Between November and March, the Hibernians Ground and the Victor Tedesco Stadium will be utilised as well.
The BOV First Division will kick-off on November 20 and the final league matches will come to an end on April 26. Five matches will be played each week.
The BOV Second Division gets underway on September 26 and ends on May 17. On the other hand, the first matches from the BOV Third Division will be played on September 27 while the last matches are due for May 16. The Third Division Play-Offs will be played between May 23 and 30.
The quick-Keno Second & Third Division Knock-Out kicks-off on August 31 while the Maltco Lotteries First Division Knock-Out gets underway on September 19.
Dates and venues for the U*BET FA Trophy and the National League 100 Anniversary Cup were also announced although the fixtures for these competitions have not been carried out yet.
Andre Schembri - SK Austria Kärnten (Austria - Bundesliga)
Andre Schembri scored his first goal for SK Austria Kärnten as they defeated Rennweger SV 4-2 away from home on Saturday. Schembri scored the first goal on 15 minutes. He was substituted on 62 minutes.
Daniel Bogdanovic - Barnsley FC (England - League Championship)
Daniel Bogdanovic scored the only goal for Barnsley in the narrow League Cup win over Lincoln City on 72 minutes, just five minutes after being included as a substitute. On Saturday, Bogdanovic was named in the starting line-up in the 0-2 home defeat to Coventry City while on Tuesday, the Maltese striker was included as a substitute in the 0-3 defeat to Preston North End.
Justin Haber - Sheffield United (England - League Championship)
Justin Haber was on the bench for the League Cup game which the Blades lost 1-2 to Port Vale. However he was not included in the squad for the Championship clashes against Watford (2-0) and Leicester (1-1).
Andrei Agius - SS Cassino (Italy - Lega Pro Seconda Divisione Girone C)
Andrei Agius was not included in Cassino's goalless draw with Scafatese in a match from the Coppa Italia Lega Pro.
John Hutchinson - Central Coast Mariners FC (Australia - A-League)
John Hutchinson played the whole 90 in 1-1 draw Central Coast Newcastle Jets.
Manny Muscat - Wellington Phoenix FC (New Zealand - Australian A-League)
Manny Muscat played the whole ninety minutes as Wellington Phoenix defeated Perth Glory 2-1.
- The Vittoriosa Stars Youth Football Nursery launched its official website www.vittoriosastarsfootballnursery.com.
The site carries information and news about various areas that include the nursery, its setup and the fixtures of both the nursery's teams and the parent club's teams.
The website's main aim is to act as a link between the committee, the players and the parents so as to keep everyone in the loop on any developments in the nursery.
- 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, Head Coach James Camilleri on 99440154 or send an email on kalkaranursery@gmail.com by not later than Saturday 5th September.
Sat 15
- Birkirkara won this year's edition of the Carlsberg Tournament after holding hosts Hibernians in a 2-2 draw on Friday.
The Stripes therefore finished their commitments on five points, just like Hibernians and Qormi. However the Stripes had better goal-difference than the other two teams.
Marsaxlokk ended at the bottom of the table without any points.
- The football season in Gozo will kick-off on Saturday September 5 with the first two matches from the Preliminary Round of the Sportika Second Division Knock-Out. On Sunday 6, the Independence Cup gets underway.
Both competitions will come to an end on September 21.
The Melita First Division League is due to start on September 20 with the clashes Ghajnsielem vs S.K. Victoria Wanderers and Xewkija Tigers vs Nadur Youngsters. However if one or more teams out of these four will be involved in the Independence Cup final, the game First Division game or games will be anticipated to Thursday 17.
All matches until mid-November will be played at the Sannat Ground which now boasts a new artificial turf pitch. From then onwards, both the Gozo Stadium and Sannat Ground will be used.
The Melita Second Division League kicks-off on September 26.
The season comes to an end on May 16 with the finals of the Super Cup and the Second Division Challenge Cup. Other competitions to be held this season include the GFA Cup and the Jum il-Helsien Cup.
- Tarxien Rainbows confirmed the signing of more players in their bid to strengthen the squad for the coming season.
Ryan Mintoff, who spent last season on loan with Dingli Swallows, joins Tarxien from Hibernians on a permament basis.
On the other hand, goalkeeper David Cassar and defender Stacey Vella join the club on a one-year loan from Hibernians and Msida St. Joseph respectively. Cassar played for St. Patrick last season.
Meanwhile the Rainbows have officially confirmed Everton Antonio Pereira, better known as Everton, as their second foreigner of the season.
Before coming to Malta, the Brazilian defender played for America FC (1995-98), Club Atletico Paranense (1999-00), Sport Club Unicao Torrensefil - Portugal (2001-02), Corinthians (2002-03), EC Taubate (2003), SC Tavriya Simferopol in Ukraine (2004-05), CA Taquaritinga / Galo Maringa (2005), FC Vilnius - Lithuania (2006-07), Jagiellonia and LKS Lodz in Poland.
Everton was voted the best player in the Lithuanian League for the season 2006-07 and was also voted best midfielder in the Polish League for the season 2007-08 whilst playing with Jagiellonia.
- Hamrun Spartans will be organising the first edition of the Powerade Cup - a pre-season tournament which will be held at the Victor Tedesco Stadium. The tournament is sponsored by General Soft Drinks Limited.
Taking part in the tournament besides hosts Hamrun Spartans are St. Venera Lightnings, Zebbug Rangers and Mqabba. It will be played on a one-round league basis.
It is planned to make this tournament an annual event.
The fixtures are as follows:
Wednesday 19
19:30 Hamrun Spartans vs Zebbug Rangers
21:30 St. Venera Lightnings vs Mqabba
Monday 24
19:30 St. Venera Lightnings vs Zebbug Rangers
21:30 Hamrun Spartans vs Mqabba
Wednesday 26
19:30 Mqabba vs Zebbug Rangers
21:30 St. Venera Lightnings vs Hamrun Spartans
- On the eve of their first Premier League game against Floriana, Qormi Football Club will be holding the presentation of the squad during an activity at the club's football ground.
This activity will be held on Saturday 22, starting at 20:00. All players and officials will be attending.
Fri 14
- Hibernians Tournament Qormi vs Marsaxlokk 2-0, Hibernians vs Birkirkara 2-2
- Malta international striker Michael Mifsud denied reports, appearing on a number of local websites on Friday afternoon, claiming that he had agreed to join Valletta.
Speaking to maltafootball.com, the Malta striker revealed that he has various options abroad and is waiting to conclude a deal.
The former Coventry City striker, who was clearly disappointed with these reports, said these were only lies. He said that he is not considering a return to the Premier League.
Michael Mifsud is currently a free agent after his contract with Coventry City expired in June. Mifsud had moved to England in January 2007 after playing for Sliema Wanderers, Kaiserslautern and Lillestrom. He scored sixteen goals in 86 matches for the Sky Blues. Last February, he moved to Barnsley on loan where he scored twice in fifteen matches.
Meanwhile thanks to his two goals against Georgia last Wednesday, Michael Mifsud moved closer to breaking the record of being the best top scorer of all-time for the national team. In fact, with 22 goals, he is now just one goal away from Carmel Busuttil's record of 23 goals.
- Six teams will be taking part in the Mellieha Challenge Cup - a tournament organised by the Mellieha Sports Club and sponsored by the Local Council - which will be held between Monday 17th and Monday 24th August. All matches will be played at the new synthetic turf pitch in Mellieha.
The six teams were divided into two groups: San Gwann, Rabat Ajax and Sirens in Group 1, Attard, Mellieha and Mgarr United in Group 2.
- The Malta Football Association Referees Board held the annual three-day intensive seminar for its First and Second Class referees and assistant referees last week at the Conference Hall, Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali.
The seminar was addressed by UEFA Referees’ Committee member Mr Vlado Sajn from Slovenia. Sajn spoke mainly about the Amendments to Laws of the Game, Serious Foul Play, The Interpretation of Advantage Rule and Management Issues (dissent, mass confrontation, demanding cards, unsporting behavior).
Various topics were addressed also by Maltese Referees’ Board lecturers and guest speakers including Adele Muscat, Patrick Fenech, Tom Restall, Victor Mintoff, Luca Pagani, Emmanuel Zammit, Mark Falzon and J.J. Aquilina.
- Balzan Youths Football Club are looking for players between the ages of 17 – 19 years willing to join their minor team which participates in the Youth League Section B, under the guidance of their coach Mr. Chucks Nwoko.
Interested players should contact the club on e-mail address : 'balzanyouths@internet.vodafone.com.mt' leaving their contact details.
- The committee of the St. George’s Football Club Nursery would like to inform the general public that it is accepting applications from children who are between 5 and 16 years of age, and who would like to train football during the 2009/2010 football season.
Applications can be collected from the bar of the St. George’s Football Club after 07.00p.m., from Wefi Ironmongery or the website www.stgeorgesfc.com
- Senglea Athletic Youth Nursery issued the applications for all those children and youths who wish to join the nursery. Applications are open for all those children, youths and youngsters who wish to train in a friendly atmosphere, under the instruction of professional coaches.
Applications are open to all those boys and girls between the ages of five and seventeen. Those who wish to apply, should send an e-mail with their details to sengleanursery@hotmail.com. Those boys who wish to come for a trial with Senglea Nursery to form part of the Under-17, Under-15 or Under-13 team, should send an e-mail at the above mentioned e-mail address, phone on 79373836 or visit the Senglea Nursery premises. Those girls under the age of sixteen, who wish to form part of Senglea Nursery’s female team, should also write an e-mail at same e-mail address.
All Senglea Nursery players are coached by professional and qualified coaches. Senglea Nursery offers a healthy and friendly ambience, with the aim of providing fun, training and teaching.
Meanwhile following the nursery's annual general meeting, Stephen Spiteri was confirmed as President of Senglea Nursery for the fourth consecutive year, Victor Zarb as vice-president, Mario Fenech as secretary, Paul Buttigieg as cashier and Rachel Genovese, Rita Abela, Joe Caruana, Rodney Stivala and Redianne Bugeja as members.
Those who wish more information regarding our club can log on to http://schoolnet.gov.mt/sengleanurseryfc/ and obtain all the necessary information on the Senglea Nursery.
Thu 13
- In a message to the presidents and secretaries of member clubs on the occasion of the start of season 2009-2010, MFA President Dr Joe Mifsud said that the main competitions of the new season are about to start after the Euro Cup was played at the end of June and the Super Cup curtain-raiser on Monday heralds the BOV Premier League due to begin on Friday the 21st August.
Dr Mifsud made special reference to the celebrations which are planned to be held in a most fitting way during the new season to mark three anniversaries in the history of the association. These are the 100 years since the first national league competitions were held in 1909-1910 and the 50th anniversary since our association became a member of FIFA and UEFA. These anniversaries are meaningful in the sense that while the national league set the ball rolling for domestic competitions, our membership within FIFA and UEFA paved the way for our participation on the international stage both at club and national teams level. The celebrations are primarily intended to increase the popularity of football in Malta especially among children and youths and to instil in the public a greater love for the game.
Dr Mifsud then went on to highlight the work that is being done in the various sectors and member associations, in particular the Malta Football Coaches Association (MFCA) and the Malta Football Referees Association (MFRA). Incidentally, both these associations are also celebrating landmark anniversaries this season. The education of coaches and grooming of referees are foremost in the plans of the association, as is that of educating club administrators. Courses and seminars to this effect are ongoing activities in the MFA’s calendar.
Reference was also made to the infrastructural and technical projects, all aimed at strengthening the foundations of football in our islands. The MFA, UEFA, government entities and the clubs themselves are contributing towards this. The ambitious project to improve club facilities around the country, the upgrading of the National Stadium Complex at Ta’ Qali and other initiatives such as the medical clinic aimed at monitoring the health of club-registered players as well as the work being done in the youth sector were also given recognition. Mention was also made of other specialised work, in particular the field of doping and the initiatives in this regard which being taken by the association to conform with FIFA regulations.
While the past season could be regarded as relatively good, also thanks to the role played by the sponsors of the competitions, unfortunately the alleged cases of corruption, completed or attempted, put a blemish on the game. Dr Mifsud stressed that the association is resolved to combat malpractice in all its forms, including violence and misbehaviour in our stadia, illegal betting and bribery. He said that this will continue to be done with the constant co-operation of the police.
As to the current cases of alleged corruption which are being investigated, a distinction has to be made between legislative and executive powers on the one hand and the MFA disciplinary procedures on the other. The process is still underway but this will not disrupt the MFA from pursuing its competitions programme for the new season. When the findings of the independent tribunal are completed, the MFA will take the measures according to the tribunal’s decisions.
Finally, Dr Mifsud said that Fair Play must be the principle which should guide all stakeholders of a sport we all love so much. In this respect he said the MFA was confident of the co-operation that will be forthcoming from all clubs and their officials.
Wed 12
- Friendly Match Malta vs Georgia 2-0
- Under-21 Friendly Match Albania vs Malta 1-2
The Malta Under-21 side defeated facing Albania 2-1 in a friendly match at the Niko Dovana Stadium in Durres on Wednesday.
Amet Jonuzi put the hosts ahead on 35 minutes but four minutes later, Malta was awarded a penalty which was converted by Warren Chircop.
Twenty minutes from time, Malta notched the winner thanks to Tyrone Farrugia. There was a short freekick for Miguel Ciantar who lashed the ball into the centre of the small box with Farrugia placing the ball at the back of the net.
- The Malta Football Coaches Association is going to organise its first instructional meeting for season 2009-2010 for all its member coaches on Tuesday 18th August at 19:00 at the Juve Club, Triq Madre Maria Spinelli, B'Kara.
The theme of the session is 'The role of a coach in a nursery', lectured by Fr. Hilary Tagliaferro.
After the meeting those members attending the seminar can pay and collect the official equipment that each coach will be required to wear during the seminar. One can also renew the membership for season 2009-2010.
- Fgura Tournament Marsa vs Kirkop U. 1-2, Swieqi U. vs Senglea A. 1-9
Tue 11
- Hibernians Tournament Hibernians vs Qormi 1-1, Birkirkara vs Marsaxlokk 3-0
- Fgura Tournament Zurrieq vs Naxxar L. 0-0, Siggiewi vs Fgura U. 0-0
- The fixtures for the first two rounds of matches from the BOV Premier League were released on Tuesday.
The BOV Premier League will kick-off on Friday 21 with the clash Birkirkara vs Valletta, kick-off at 19:30.
On Saturday 22, Dingli Swallows face Tarxien Rainbows while Sliema Wanderers take on Vittoriosa Stars. On Sunday 23, Floriana meet Qormi and Hibernians face Marsaxlokk. Matches will be played at 17:00 and 19:00 respectively.
Another big match is in programme on Friday 28 with eternal rivals Valletta and Floriana crossing swords at 19:30. The programme for the rest of the weekend is as follows:
Saturday 29
17:00 Marsaxlokk vs Dingli S.
19:00 Vittoriosa S. vs Hibernians
Sunday 30
17:00 Tarxien R. vs Birkirkara
19:00 Qormi vs Sliema W.
Meanwhile the BOV Super Cup between Hibernians and Sliema Wanderers will be played on Monday 17th August, kick-off at 19:30.
- The draws for the APS Bank Under-17 and Under-15 Leagues were held on Tuesday at the Youth FA Headquarters in Floriana.
As from this season, besides the usual grounds such as Luxol, St. Aloysius, Melita, St. Patrick and Tarxien, another four venues will be used for the Youth FA competitions. These are the football grounds in Marsaxlokk, Mellieha and Pembroke Athleta. Also as from this season, Gozo FC who are taking part in the APS Bank League Under-17 Section B and the APS Bank League Under-15 Section A will play their home-matches at the Sannat Ground.
The first round of matches from the various sections will be played over the first days of September - Saturday 5, Sunday 6 and Tuesday 8.
APS Bank Under-17 Section A
Paola H. vs Pietà H.
Balzan Y. vs Floriana
Naxxar L. vs Melita
Birkirkara vs Rabat D.
Hamrun S. vs San Gwann
Valletta vs Qormi
Three teams are relegated to Section B.
APS Bank Under-17 Section B
St. Patrick vs Marsaxlokk
Pembroke A. vs Gozo
St. Andrews vs Msida SJ
Tarxien R. vs Mgarr U.
Sliema W. vs Mosta
Mellieha vs Kirkop U.
Three teams are promoted to Section A and three teams are relegated to Section C.
APS Bank Under-17 Section C1
St. Venera U. vs St. George's
Zebbug R. vs Marsa
Zejtun C. vs Mqabba
Fgura U. bye
APS Bank Under-17 Section C2
Xghajra T. vs Dingli S.
Lija-Iklin vs Ghaxaq
Luqa SA vs Gudja U.
Senglea A. bye
APS Bank Under-17 Section C3
Gzira U. vs Birzebbuga W.
Vittoriosa S. vs Sirens
Zurrieq vs Attard
Siggiewi bye
The winner of each section is promoted to Section B.
APS Bank Under-15 Section A
Sliema W. vs Hamrun S.
Valletta vs Pietà H.
Marsa vs Gozo
Birkirkara vs Mosta
St. Andrews vs St. Patrick
Paola H. vs Pembroke A.
Three teams are relegated to Section B.
APS Bank Under-15 Section B
Melita vs Zejtun C.
Birzebbuga W. vs Attard
Rabat D. vs Lija-Iklin
Floriana vs Qormi
Kirkop U. vs Naxxar L.
Tarxien R. vs San Gwann
Three teams are promoted to Section A and three teams are relegated to Section C.
APS Bank Under-15 Section C1
Mqabba vs Zebbug R.
St. Venera U. vs Fgura U.
Marsaxlokk vs Vittoriosa S.
Sirens vs Gzira U.
APS Bank Under-15 Section C2
Luqa SA vs Ghaxaq
Xghajra T. vs Senglea A.
Kalkara SJ vs Zurrieq
Mgarr U. vs Msida SJ
APS Bank Under-15 Section C3
Dingli S. vs Balzan Y.
Sta. Lucia vs Mellieha
Siggiewi vs St. George's
Mtarfa vs Gudja U.
The winner of each section is promoted to Section B.
- The Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices assembled on Tuesday to finalise its investigation into the alleged Vittoriosa FC/Ancilleri corruption case.
The Board deferred the case to the next Board meeting to deliver its sentence.
- John Buttigieg will be making his debut as Malta national coach on Wednesday as Malta takes on Georgia in a friendly match at the National Stadium, kick-off at 20:00.
Buttigieg and his assistant Carmel Busuttil took over the reins of the national team just three weeks ago as Dusan Fitzel was forced to quit due to health problems.
The main objective of the two coaches is to prepare the team for the next two 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers - against Sweden on September 9 at Ta' Qali and against Portugal on October 14 away from home. The friendly against Georgia will be the penultimate test for the national team before the Sweden game as five days earlier, Malta will host Cape Verde in another friendly match at Ta' Qali.
Addressing the media on Tuesday morning, Buttigieg said so far they have relied on the previous squad and that it was now up to the players to show that they are ready to give their hundred per cent for the national team.
The Malta coach said that he was satisfied with the work carried out in training sessions over the past couple of weeks but admitted that loss of concentration is one point, the team should work harder on as one cannot afford such lack of attention in international matches. Buttigieg said that everyone has to work hard for each other and the team should work hard to do better.
Results in recent outings were far from impressive. Malta lost eleven out of the last twelve matches and failed to score in the last ten games.
Buttigieg admits that the team lacks confidence in front of goal although he pointed out that the players were creating several chances but missing easy scoring opportunities.
For this friendly game against Georgia, a number of players were left out of the squad. These include four of the foreign-based players, namely Sheffield United goalkeeper Justin Haber, Barnsley striker Daniel Bogdanovic and Maltese-Australians Manny Muscat and John Hutchinson. Also missing are George Mallia, Etienne Barbara, Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza and Terence Scerri. On Monday morning, defenders Jonathan Caruana and Luke Dimech were also dropped as the squad was trimmed to eighteen players - the former due to an injury and the latter for disciplinary reasons.
Therefore the players at the disposal of John Buttigieg and Carmel Busuttil are:
goalkeepers Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Mario Muscat (Hibernians);
defenders Andrei Agius (Cassino - ITA), Ian Azzopardi (Sliema), Alex Muscat (Sliema), Brian Said (Marsaxlokk), Kenneth Scicluna (Valletta);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Shaun Bajada (Birkirkara), Roderick Briffa (Valletta), Clayton Failla (Sliema), Ryan Fenech (Sliema), Jamie Pace (Valletta), Kevin Sammut (Valletta);
forwards Andrew Cohen (Hibs), Michael Mifsud (unattached), Andre Schembri (Karnten - AUT), Ivan Woods (Sliema).
Malta and Georgia met four times over the past fifteen years. Georgia defeated Malta 1-0 in the Rothmans Tournament in February 1994. Five months later, the two teams shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw in Tbilisi. In 1998, Georgia once agan participated in the Rothmans Tournament, beating Malta 3-1. Three years ago, Georgia defeated Malta 2-0 in another match from the Malta International Tournament.
Georgia lie at the bottom of Group 8 in the World Cup qualifiers. They held Cyprus, Bulgaria and Montenegro in draws at home but lost the other four matches to Ireland - home and away, Italy and Cyprus away from home.
The players selected by Georgia coach Hector Cuper for this game are:
Giorgi Lomaia (Inter Baku), Zurab Mamaladze (Zestafoni), Grigol Bediashvili (Wit-Georgia), Zurab Khizanishvili (Blackburn), Mate Ghvinianidze (Munich 1860), Guram Kashia (Dinamo Tbilisi), Lasha Salukvadze (Rubin Kazan), Teimuraz Gongadze (Simurg), Aleksandre Kvakhadze (Wit-Georgia), Amiran Sanaia (Le Mans), Levan Kobiashvili (Schalke 04), Levan Khmaladze (Dinamo Tbilisi), Luka Razmadze (Wit-Georgia), Levan Tskitishvili (Wehen Wiesbaden), George Seturidze (Olimpi Rustavi), Giorgi Devdariani (Aarhus), Levan Kenia (Schalke 04), Levan Mchedlidze (Palermo), Giorgi Merebashvili (Dinamo Tbilisi), Vladimer Dvalishvili (Maccabi Haifa), Jano Ananidze (Spartak Moscow).
Wednesday's game will be controlled by referee Panicos Kailis from Cyprus who will be assisted by assistant referees Philip Agius and Ingmar Spiteri and fourth official Marco Borg.
Ticket prices will be as follows:
West Stand A and C:
Males: €8; Women, children and senior citizens: €4
Millennium Stand A:
Males ticket: €5; Women, children and senior citizens ticket: €4
Tickets will be available on the day from the gates prior to kick-off.
- Floriana FC have decided to set up a Floriana FC Ladies Circle with the following objectives:
- To encourage female participation in the activities of Floriana FC;
- To increase membership of Floriana FC especially amongst female supporters;
- To increase support for Floriana FC amongst females;
- To organize fund-raising activities in aid of Floriana FC;
- To organize a female football team capable to compete in local football competitions.
Consequently, the Floriana FC Committee is calling all female supporters who want to form part of the first Committee of the Floriana FC Ladies Circle to contact the Ass Secretary, Mr Matthew Paris (77705377) or write to the Ass. Secretary Floriana FC, 14, At Anne Street, Floriana FRN 9013, giving their ID Card No., address, Tel. Nos, email address. Closing date for those showing interest is Wednesday 19 August 2009.
The Floriana FC urges all female supporters to show support for this initiative which is one of a series of measures aimed to mark Floriana FC centenary anniversary from winning the first Maltese Football League Championship. Let’s make season 2009/10 a season to remember.
Mon 10
- Fgura Tournament Swieqi U. vs Marsa 1-1, Senglea A. vs Kirkop U. 2-2
- Malta national coach John Buttigieg and his assistant Carmel Busuttil named the final eighteen-man squad ahead of next Wednesday's friendly match against Georgia at the National Stadium, Ta' Qali.
Defenders Jonathan Caruana and Luke Dimech were dropped on Monday as the squad was trimmed to eighteen players.
- Daniel Bogdanovic - Barnsley FC (England - League Championship):
Daniel Bogdanovic was included as a substitute fifteen minutes from tie as Barnsley held Sheffield Wednesday in a 2-2 draw away from home. The Owls took a two goal lead but Barnsley scored twice to earn a point.
Justin Haber - Sheffield United (England - League Championship):
Justin Haber was not included in the senior squad as Sheffield United held Middlesbrough in a goalless draw away from home in the first game which kicked-off the League Championship.
Andre Schembri - SK Austria Kärnten (Austria - Bundesliga):
Andre Schembri played the whole ninety minutes in Austria Kärnten's 1-3 defeat to Sturm Graz on Sunday. Karnten are yet without any points after playing three matches.
Andrei Agius - SS Cassino (Italy - Lega Pro Seconda Divisione Girone C):
Andrei Agius played the whole ninety minutes in the 2-0 win away from home for Cassino over Melfi in a match from the Coppa Italia Lega Pro. Another match is scheduled for Wednesday but Agius is ruled out due to national team commitments.
John Hutchinson - Central Coast Mariners FC (Australia - A-League):
John Hutchinson played the whole ninety minutes in a fine 2-0 win away from home over defending champions Melbourne Victory. Hutchinson was involved in the move which led to the first goal.
Manny Muscat - Wellington Phoenix FC (New Zealand - Australian A-League):
Manny Muscat played the whole ninety minutes as Wellington Phoenix lost 3-2 to Newcastle Jets away from home in the Hyundai A-League on Sunday.
Udo Nwoko - Panthrakikos F.C. (Greece - Super League):
Udo Nwoko scored for Pantharakikos in a friendly match against Cypriot First Division side Nea Salamina. Nwoko was included inthe starting line-up and managed to put his team 2-1 ahead on 51 minutes. He was substituted on 67 minutes
Luke Woods - Wealdstone F.C. (England - Ryman Premier League):
Luke Woods played for Wealdstone in a friendly match against Hitchin Town which ended in a goalless draw on Saturday.
- Birzebbuga St. Peter's are looking for players between the ages of 17 and 19 willing to join their minors' team which takes part in the Youth League.
Interested players should contact the club on email address bugasp@melita.com and write down their
details. They will be contacted back.
Sun 9
- Tarxien Rainbows confirmed Denni Rocha Dos Santos as their first foreigner for the coming Premier League campaign.
Denni Rocha Dos Santos joined Tarxien in January and was an important member of Noel Coleiro's side that helped the Rainbows to survive in the top division. He was voted BOV Player of the Month in April.
Before joining Tarxien, Denni played for Newcastle Jets in the A-League of Australia where he won the A-League Championship. He had earlier played for Santo Andre and Sao Caetano in the Brazilian top league.
Since last season, the Rainbows lost Daniel Mariano Bueno who moved to Poland and released Everson Alan De Lima. They are expected to sign defender Everton Antonio Pereira and have striker Anderson Mendes Riberio on trial. The latter has just arrived in Malta after Kleyr Vieira Dos Santos decided not to stay.
- Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery participated in this year's 25th edition of the Welsh International Super Cup held in Aberystwyth between the end of July and beginning of August. This was the second time that the Hamrun nursery participated in this tournament, organised by Team Tours Direct. Thirteen boys from the 1999 and 1998 categories competed in classes K and J (respectively) of the competition. The boys were accompanied by 3 officials and 7 parents. The travelling kit was sponsored by Sports Experience of Attard.
The 1999 category placed second in the group stage, scoring 2 wins, 1 draw and 1 defeat and therefore qualifying for the Cup quarter-finals. They faced Sports Beijing Storm Troopers losing 2-0. In the Shield semi-final, Hamrun won against Simla Youngs 2-0. Hamrun played Jamie Shore Academy in the final and, following a goalless draw after extra time, the Shield was shared between the two teams. The 1999 team also played friendly matches against Jamie Shore B (1-1), Jamie Shore A (3-1) and Sports Beijing Storm Troopers (1-0).
The 1998 category managed to reach another semi-final, that of the Class J Challenge Cup. In the group stage, Hamrun placed second with Jamie Shore Academy but the later had a better goal difference. Hamrun managed 2 wins, 1 draw and 1 defeat. Hamrun played GEMS E-Sport Dubai in the semi-final and were unlucky to lose 3-2 after leading 1-0 for most of the first half. Hamrun played their last game in the play-offs beating Llandrindod Wells 4-0.
The Welsh tour was another positive experience for the boys especially with the high level of play shown by all teams. The tournament is renowned for hosting a number of young players who later became football stars in the names of Michael Owen, Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler, Steven Gerrard and Andriy Shevchenko. More information and photos can be obtained from the nursery website, www.hamrunnursery.com
- Valletta FC in collaboration with the Valletta FC Supporters' Club will be organising the Players Presentation Night on Friday 14th August, 2009 at 8.00pm at the Salinos Grounds Valletta.
The Supporters' Club's Souvenirs Stand will be present and all Valletta FC Supporters can renew or subscribe their membership on the evening. A lottery with fabulous prizes will also take place during this Presentation Night.
The Valletta FC squad will also be officially presented to the public. Supporters will have the opportunity to meet and take photos with the Valletta FC players. Various well known local singers and dancers will be performing on the evening. Entrance fee for this event is € 5.00, tickets are available from L-Amerikan in Republic str, Valletta. Club president Mr. Victor Sciriha will be addressing the Supporters.
This is another fund-raising activity for Valletta FC. So, all Valletta Supporters together with their families and friends are urged to attend this festivity in order to make another successful one.
Sat 8
- In their bid to strengthen the squad for the forthcoming Premier League campaign, Qormi FC secured the services of seven new players. These players were presented to the media during a press conference which was held at the Portomaso Casino on Saturday.
The seven new players are goalkeeper Matthew Camilleri and defender Kenneth Spiteri who joined the club from Msida St. Joseph, defender Jonathan Bondin who joins the club from Valletta, former Pietà Hotspurs defender Sharlon Pace, striker Steve Meilak who joins the club from Hamrun Spartans, Ryan Deguara who joins Qormi from Mosta and defender Malcolm Buttigieg formerly of Tarxien Rainbows. The club also signed Joseph Farrugia on a permanent deal after being on loan for the past three years while Keith Fenech and Massimo Grima, who were on loan from Valletta, have been retained.
The club's technical staff will now consist of Jesmond Zerafa as team-manager and Victor Carbonaro as coach with Mark Vella as goalkeepers' coach.
Jesmond Zerafa, who starts his third season with the club, thanked the committee for having faith in him and offering him a new two year contract. He said the past season was a difficult one but with the help of all those involved Qormi will continue to establish themselves in the Premier League.
The Qormi coach said that this season he has a younger squad but the new players at his disposal almost all have good Premier League experience. He said it was of utmost importance for all within the club to keep their feet to the ground. Avoiding relegation will be the main objective according to Zerafa but Qormi will be aiming to go a step further. He appealed for support, saying that supporters could play a very important role.
With Nigerian defender Alfred Effiong and Brazilian defender Ramon Dos Santos confirmed for another season, the only doubt for Zerafa is the third foreigner. He said that two strikers - one from Romania and another from Brazil are currently on trial with the club and most probably a final decision will be taken at the end of next week. Zerafa said that he prefers having a foreign striker rather than a midfielder as foreign strikers could make the difference.
The Qormi coach concluded by praising president Matthew Fenech for working diligently.
Matthew Fenech appealed for more support for the club and asked fans to give their constant backing to the committee and players. He thanked the sponsors - Portomaso Casino Live who are once again the main sponsors and other sponsors including Kia Motors, Jesper's Bakery, Express Trailers, Alfred Gatt Autoparts, Snow White Laundry and Dry Cleaning, Twilight Sound System, General Soft Drinks and TeamSport.
Speaking on behalf of Portomaso Casino, Duty Manager Josef Borg said that after a successful first season in the Premier League, the club's high ambitions encouraged the company to support the club once again.
- The Malta Under-21 side will be facing Albania in a friendly match at the Niko Dovana Stadium in Durres on Wednesday, kick-off at 17:00.
Coach Edwin Camilleri and his assistant Raymond Schembri named an eighteen-man squad for this game, namely:
goalkeepers Henry Bonello (Sliema), Jurgen Micallef (Floriana);
defenders Steve Bonnici (Melita), Steve Borg (Valletta), Ryan Camilleri (Hibs), Tyrone Farrugia (Msida), Timothy Fleri Soler (Hamrun), George Gribbon (Melita), Joseph Zerafa (Birkirkara);
midfielders Luke Agius (Floriana), Lydon Micallef (Mosta), Beppe Muscat (Sliema), Chris Pace (Mosta), Mark Scerri (Sliema);
forwards Warren Chircop (Tarxien), Miguel Ciantar (Sliema), Terence Vella (Mosta).
The match will be controlled by referee Sokol Jareci who will be assisted by assistant referees Fatmir Elezi and Astrit Mahmuti and fourth official Remzi Sadiku.
The squad leaves Malta on Sunday at 12:35.
- Malta national coach John Buttigieg and his assistant Carmel Busuttil named a twenty-man squad ahead of next Wednesday's friendly match against Georgia at the National Stadium, Ta' Qali. The squad will then be trimmed to eighteen players on Monday following the morning training session.
The game against Georgia will mark the debut of John Buttigieg and Carmel Busuttil as national coach and assistant national coach respectively after they took over from Dusan Fitzel was forced to quit due to health problems. This match will also be the penultimate test for the national team before the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Sweden in programme on September 9. Five days earlier, Malta hosts Cape Verde in another friendly match at Ta' Qali.
Four of the foreign-based players, namely Sheffield United goalkeeper Justin Haber, Barnsley striker Daniel Bogdanovic and Maltese-Australians Manny Muscat and John Hutchinson were left out of the squad. Also missing from the 20-man squad are Birkirkara midfielder George Mallia and strikers Etienne Barbara and Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza with new Valletta striker Terence Scerri who missed the trips to the Czech Republic and Sweden last June being left out once again.
The players selected by Buttigieg and Busuttil are:
goalkeepers Andrew Hogg (Valletta), Mario Muscat (Hibernians);
defenders Andrei Agius (Cassino - ITA), Ian Azzopardi (Sliema), Jonathan Caruana (Hibs), Luke Dimech (Valletta), Alex Muscat (Sliema), Brian Said (Marsaxlokk), Kenneth Scicluna (Valletta);
midfielders Gilbert Agius (Valletta), Shaun Bajada (Birkirkara), Roderick Briffa (Valletta), Clayton Failla (Sliema), Ryan Fenech (Sliema), Jamie Pace (Valletta), Kevin Sammut (Valletta);
forwards Andrew Cohen (Hibs), Michael Mifsud (unattached), Andre Schembri (Karnten - AUT), Ivan Woods (Sliema).
Meanwhile the players selected by Georgia coach Hector Cuper for this game are:
Giorgi Lomaia (Inter Baku), Zurab Mamaladze (Zestafoni), Grigol Bediashvili (Wit-Georgia), Zurab Khizanishvili (Blackburn), Mate Ghvinianidze (Munich 1860), Guram Kashia (Dinamo Tbilisi), Lasha Salukvadze (Rubin Kazan), Teimuraz Gongadze (Simurg), Aleksandre Kvakhadze (Wit-Georgia), Amiran Sanaia (Le Mans), Levan Kobiashvili (Schalke 04), Levan Khmaladze (Dinamo Tbilisi), Luka Razmadze (Wit-Georgia), Levan Tskitishvili (Wehen Wiesbaden), George Seturidze (Olimpi Rustavi), Giorgi Devdariani (Aarhus), Levan Kenia (Schalke 04), Levan Mchedlidze (Palermo), Giorgi Merebashvili (Dinamo Tbilisi), Vladimer Dvalishvili (Maccabi Haifa), Jano Ananidze (Spartak Moscow).
Wednesday's game, which kicks-off at 20:00, will be controlled by referee Panicos Kailis from Cyprus who will be assisted by assistant referees Philip Agius and Ingmar Spiteri and fourth official Marco Borg.
Ticket prices will be as follows:
West Stand A and C:
Males: €8; Women, children and senior citizens: €4
Millennium Stand A:
Males ticket: €5; Women, children and senior citizens ticket: €4
Tickets will be available on the day from the gates prior to kick-off.
- Two players from the Pietà Hotspurs Youth Nursery claimed the awards for Most Promising Players for season 2008/09 presented by the Youth Football Association. This was the first time that two Pietà players won the two categories.
Terence Agius and Clifford Gauci were both honoured for their achievements and hard work during the past season in the Under-15 and Under-17 categories respectively during the Youth FA's annual presentation dinner which was held on Friday.
Both Agius and Gauci have been playing for the Pietà Hotspurs Youth Nursery for a long period of time, therefore confirming the nursery's hard and fruitful work towards its young players. Pietà Hotspurs would like to congratulate these two youngsters for these awards and its Under-15 side for winning the Under-15 Knock-Out.
- FIFA Referee Chris Lautier will be controlling the UEFA Under-21 Championship Qualifying Round Group 2 match between Switzerland and Estonia to be played in Breite, Schaffhausen - Switzerland on August 12th.
FIFA Assistant Referees Konrad G. Borg and Joe Camilleri, with Fourth Official Andre Arciola, are the other members of the refereeing team.
On the other hand, FIFA Futsal Referee Franco Cachia will be controlling his first international matches abroad during a UEFA Futsal Cup 2009-2010 Preliminary Round Group C mini-tournament in Trebinje, Bosnia Herzegovina, between the 17th and 20th August.
He will be joined by three other referees from Bulgaria, Greece and Italy, together with a timekeeper from the host country. These officials will control the six matches of the tournament.
Fri 7
Fri 7
- Hibernians Tournament Hibernians vs Marsaxlokk 2-0, Birkirkara vs Qormi 1-1
- Malta international midfielder Kevin Sammut joined Valletta from Marsaxlokk. Sammut signed a five-year contract with the Citizens.
Sammut is the fifth signing for Valletta this summer. Following the signing of Dutch duo Jordi Cruyff and Geert den Ouden, the Citizens secured the services of Under-21 international defender Steve Borg and international striker Terence Scerri.
A product of Sliema Wanderers, Kevin Sammut made his Premier League debut in season 1998/99. In summer 2000, he joined Hamrun Spartans on loan where he started playing on a regular basis, scoring five goals in 25 matches. The following summer, he moved back to Sliema. With the Wanderers, Sammut won two Premier League titles in seasons 2002/03 and 2003/04.
In season 2004/05, Kevin Sammut spent one year on loan with Msida St. Joseph and was a member of the team which reached the FA Trophy final. The following season, he joined Marsaxlokk. With the Southseasiders, Sammut won the Premier League title 2006/07 and the Footballer of the Year award in season 2008/09.
Kevin Sammut made his debut for the national team in February 2005 in a game against Norway.
- MFA President Dr Joe Mifsud and another four MFA officials were appointed as members of UEFA Committees and Disciplinary Bodies for the next two years.
Dr Joe Mifsud, who was appointed UEFA vice-president after being re-elected to the UEFA Executive Committee earlier this year, was appointed chairman of the Stadium and Security Committee. He was also appointed deputy chairman of the Players’ Status, Transfer and Agents and Match Agents Committee and is a representative of the Executive Committee on Professional Football Strategy Council.
MFA vice-president Ludovico Micallef is a member of Youth and Amateur Football Committee, General Secretary Joe Gauci is a member of the National Associations Committee while Alex Manfre was confirmed as member of the Media Committee.
MFA senior vice-president Carmelo Bartolo is a member on the Appeals Body for the period 2006-2011.
- Central Coast Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson says he will use his experiences with the Maltese national team to help him make the Hyundai A-League 2009/10 season a success.
After Hutchinson discovered the Maltese national team was looking for eligible players to boost the squad in the midst of a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign, the Victorian born midfielder jumped at the chance to represent his adopted nation.
"Before playing for Malta, I never really knew much about my grandmother’s heritage. After spending some time there with the national squad I was overwhelmed by the friendliness of the people, and the beauty of a country I really knew very little about previously," said Hutchinson.
“I had a great time there, both on and off the field, and I’m lucky that a chance encounter has turned into something so exciting for me.”
“Playing for Malta against the likes of (Sweden and Barcelona striker) Zlatan Ibrahimovic in World Cup qualifiers is something I would never have dreamed about 12 months ago, but now it’s a reality, and one of the greatest experiences of my life.
In what would no doubt go down as the busiest off-season of Hutchinson’s career, his Maltese international debut was overshadowed by an even greater achievement.
“As soon as I walked off the pitch after my first trial match (against Sydney FC), I was told my wife Kate had gone into labour, and after racing back to the Central Coast she gave birth to our little son.
“As if pre-season wasn’t bad enough, I’ve now been going through it with almost no sleep, at least I’m getting good at changing nappies,” said Hutchinson.
Hutchinson’s allegiance to the Maltese national team will also guarantee him a new fan base in Australia. The Australian Bureau of Statistics found that in 2006, 153,805 Australians claimed Maltese ancestry and 43,708 Australian residents were born in Malta. This represents the largest Maltese community outside of Malta.
“Through our partnership with Sheffield United and their links to Malta, we were asked to scout Australia for players eligible for the Maltese national squad,” said Mariners Executive Chairman Lyall Gorman.
“Not only did this initiative give one of our players the chance at representing his now adopted nation in World Cup qualifiers, but it gave us as a company the chance to work closely with the Maltese FA. We were extremely impressed with what they brought to the table, and we’d like to think that they were just as impressed with our business.
“It has brought our club closer to not only both of those organisations, as well as the wider Maltese community in Australia.”
On Thursday 6 August, Hutchinson used his experience with the Maltese national squad to steel himself for the opening match of the Hyundai A-League season. After a seven game unbeaten pre-season, Central Coast Mariners beat reigning champions Melbourne Victory, 2-0.
Thu 6
- Malta climbs four places in FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking which was published on Wednesday and is now 146th.
Among the other European countries, Malta is ranked 49th. Lying just ahead of Malta is Armenia (123, down 1), Kazakhstan (130, up 3) and Azerbaijan (137, up 2). Behind Malta is Liechtenstein (150, up 3), Faroe Islands (163, up 2), Andorra (195, up 1) and San Marino (203).
Malta plays one game against Georgia this month - a friendly match on Wednesday 12. Next month, Malta hosts Cape Verde in a friendly match on Friday 4 and Sweden in a World Cup qualifier five days later.
- Floriana FC will be holding the annual Greens Night on August 19th at Gnien Luigi Preziosi.
The event is earmarked at bidding farewell to season 2008/09 with the presentation of the Player of Year award for last season and welcoming the forthcoming football season through the official presentation of the squad.
Live entertainment will be provided on the night with particular areas reserved for children and veterans. There will also be an exhibition.
Tickets are available for €10 for adults and €6 for children. The cost includes free food and a free drink together with the chance to win a new Floriana FC shirt.
- In preparation for the new season, as is customary every year, the Malta FA Referees Board will organise a three-day intensive seminar for its First and Second Class referees and assistant referees.
This seminar is going to be held from Saturday 8th to Monday 10th August 2009 at the Conference Hall, Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali. It will be conducted by the UEFA Referees’ Committee member Mr Vlado Sajn from Slovenia.
Various topics will be addressed also by Maltese Referees’ Board lecturers and guest speakers including Adele Muscat, Patrick Fenech, Tom Restall, Victor Mintoff, Luca Pagani, Emmanuel Zammit, Mark Falzon and J.J. Aquilina.
MFA President, Dr Joe Mifsud, will deliver the opening address on Saturday at 09:30.
Tue 4
- Women's First Division champions Birkirkara suffered another heavy 10-1 defeat in their third and final match from Group C of the UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying round against Cardiff City in Brondby, Denmark on Tuesday.
Cardiff scored no less than nine goals during the first half. Natasha Harding put them ahead on 5 minutes. A minute later, Charlotte Miller doubled the score. On 11 minutes, Dannielle Willcox scored the third goal and another two goals by Harding on 18 and 22 minutes increased the lead to 5-0. The latter scored another two goals in a minute between the 31st and 32nd minute before Marie Barrow scored the eighth goal five minutes from the end of the first half. Two minutes in added time, Nicola Cousins made it 9-0.
Birkirkara scored their only goal of the mini-tournament thanks to Rachel Cuschieri on 55 minutes but Cardiff added another goal eight minutes from time thanks to Nicola Cousins.
- The Carlsberg Tournament 2009, organised by Hibernians FC, will kick-off on Friday 7th August and not as originally scheduled.
Taking part in the tournament, besides hosts Hibernians are Birkirkara, Marsaxlokk and Qormi.
The revised dates are as follows:
Fri-07-August 19:00 Hibernians vs Marsaxlokk
Fri-07-August 21:00 Birkirkara vs Qormi
Tue-11-August 19:00 Hibernians vs Qormi
Tue-11-August 21:00 Birkirkara vs Marsaxlokk
Fri-14-August 19:00 Qormi vs Marsaxlokk
Fri-14-August 21:00 Hibernians vs Birkirkara
- The players, coach and president were present for a BBQ Buffet - the first activity organised by the Tarxien Rainbows Supporters Club at the Cervjola Hotel, Marsascala.
Addressing the good number of supporters present for this activity, Tarxien coach Noel Coleiro spoke about the team's experience in the training camp in Rome. He said that the players will surely benefit from this training camp. Coleiro congratulated the Supporters Club and said they will help to boost the players' morale.
President Tony Cassar said that the setting up of a Supporters Club was something he was looking forward to. He said that the training camp was a good start for the new season and revealed that the club's objective was now to secure a top-six finish.
Meanwhile the presentation of the Best Player Award according to the Supporters followed with Supporters Club president Mario Muscat presenting the trophy to goalkeeper Anthony Curmi.
Tarxien Rainbows Supporters Club thanked Fred Buongusto, the owners and staff of the Cervjola Hotel, Mr Ahmed Nagiah and all those who contributed to the success of this first activity.
- Following the first Players’ Meeting of season 2009-2010, Lija Athletic F.C. presented the official new players, together with the official main sponsors, at the recently refurbished Lija Athletic Football Club.
The new players playing for Lija’s team this season will be: Antoine Sacco, Keith Darmanin, Tonio Saliba, Edgar DeGabriele, Heathcliff Schembri, Luke Attard and Luka Desira Buttigieg. Apart from the mentioned players, further agreements have been reached with more players and their respective clubs. The main sponsors are once again Falzon Group and Company. Gardenia Stores and Esso (D. Formosa Ltd.) are the other club sponsors. Further negotiations are being made with Mr. Gordon Micallef u Colin Ciantar for another possible sponsorship.
During this meeting, awards were presented for the outgoing season (2008-2009)
Footballer of the Year: LUKE BONNICI
Best Youth Player: JOSWEL CARUANA
Most Dedicated Player: MICHAEL MANGION
The main goal for this season is to win promotion to the First Division, this season on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the set-up of the Club; a most memorable and unforgettable anniversary celebrated earlier this year on the 15th of February 2009. Last year, Lija Athletic missed out on promotion by just two points, placing third. Coach Marco Gerada has been confirmed and he will be assisted by Mr. Edgar DeGabriele and Mr. Lorry Borg.
The President of the Club, Mr. Scerri, on behalf of the committee, thanked all the sponsors and all other beneficiaries who provide their help and assistance throughout the year.
Mon 3
- Msida St. Joseph launched an appeal to the Malta Football Association to delay the kick-off of the Premier League until the Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices of the Malta Football Association takes a decision over the alleged corruption case involving Marsaxlokk FC.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, Msida SJ president Robert Farrugia said that although the league is due to get underway in less than three weeks, the club is still not sure in which league they will be taking part - Premier League or Division 1. The board had deferred the case to Thursday August 20th, just one day before the league is due to kick-off.
Farrugia said that on March 6, Msida had asked the MFA Executive Committee to start investigations with regards to the BOV Premier League match Marsaxlokk vs Msida St. Joseph which was played on November 23, 2008 and which ended in a 1-1 draw. A club official and a player from Marsaxlokk FC pleaded guilty to approaching the Msida goalkeeper offering him to throw away the game. The Saints had asked to be rewarded a 2-0 win.
In another letter dated July 26th, Farrugia had informed the association that the club felt that Marsaxlokk were trying to gain time with the presentation of several witnesses and the delay was leaving Msida as a victim of circumstances due to loss of sponsors and the exodus of players from the club. The club also could not decide on new foreigners, despite having five players on trial, as everything depends on which league they would be playing in.
Club lawyer Dr Anglu Farrugia wrote another letter on July 31 demanding a quick resolution of the case and by not later than the date the league was due to kick-off. Dr Farrugia said that according to rules 4 and 15, court evidence was enough to prove that one is guilty if he pleaded guilty in court.
Msida mayor and committee member Notary Clifton Grima demanded fair play from both the Malta Football Association and its Board to Investigate Corrupt Practices, saying that although the law courts and sports justice were seperate entities, new MFA regulations empowered the board to the extent that court evidence and documents could be used in such cases and this case in particular where a Marsaxlokk committee member had pleaded guilty.
Sun 2
- Daniel Bogdanovic scored for Barnsley as they held Manchester City in a 1-1 draw in a friendly match. Bogdanovic was included as a substitute on 71 minutes and thirteen minutes later, he put Barnsley ahead. However a late strike by Martin Petrov restored equilibrium.
Manchester City were almost in full strength as the team included Robinho, Stevie Ireland, Nigel de Jong, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Craig Bellamy and new signings Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor.
- After beating Dutch side VV Heidebloem 5-0 in a friendly on Saturday, Valletta suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to top division side Fortuna Sittard on Sunday morning. These friendly matches were part of the Citizens' training camp which is currently being held in the Netherlands.
Charlie van den Ouweland put Fortuna ahead on 19 minutes and Taner Taktak doubled the score on the stroke of half-time. Dutchman Geert den Ouden pulled one back for the Citizens seven minutes in the second half.
Against Heidebloem, Jordi Cruyff notched a brace with their lastest recruit - Terence Scerri - and Geert den Ouden adding another two goals. The other goal was an own goal.
The training camp is being held in Limburg.
- Eight teams will be taking part in this year's edition of the Fgura United Pre-Season Tournament which will be held between Monday 10th and Tuesday 25th August at the Corradino Hockey Complex.
The teams are Second Division sides Senglea Athletic and Zurrieq together with Kirkop United, Naxxar Lions, Marsa, Siggiewi, Swieqi United u organisers Fgura United from Division 3.
Swieqi, Marsa, Senglea and Kirkop were drawn in Group A while Zurrieq, Naxxar, Siggiewi and Fgura will be playing in Group B.
Group matches will be played between August 10th and 19th while the final will be played on August 25th.
- Women's First Division champions Birkirkara lost 6-0 to Brųndby IF in a match from Group C of the UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying round in Brondby, Denmark on Saturday.
Brondby were one of last season's quarter-finalists of the UEFA Women's Cup and runners-up in the Danish league last season.
Signe Pries Andersen put the hosts ahead on 38 minutes and just before the end of the first half, substitute Nanna Larsen doubled the score. A brace by Kristina Blitz Kragh on 65 and 73 minutes increased the lead to 4-0. Nanna Christiansen made it 5-0 on 80 minutes and Line Roddik Hansen sealed the issue with a sixth goal one minute from time.
B'KARA: Tonina Dimech, Chantal Marie Fenech (63' Catherine Camilleri) (82' Isabelle Mazzitelli), Kimberly Parnis, Stefania Farrugia, Rachel Cuschieri, Lynn Fenech, Eleonora Agliano, Maria Rosaria Cardona (78' Ruth Steer Chetham), Sacha Vella, Kirsty Vella, Kelly Agius Pace.
In the first game on Thursday, Birkirkara lost 10-0 to Portuguese side SU 1° Dezembro. On Tuesday, Birkirkara will be facing Cardiff City LFC of Wales in the third and final match.
- With the last changes happening at the Zejtun Corinthians, the Youth Nursery has also gone through a great reshuffle and restructuring process. The nursery will cater for the Under 5's (boys and girls) and the Under 7's (boys and girls) and the committee and staff is also willing to have a go at organising the first GIRLS TEAM.
Having coaches for all sections, and technical directors to lead the nursery we are working on having the nursery catering for the HOLISTIC development of our members. We would also like to start working at having PARENTS at the centre of the children's development at our nursery.
Anyone interested may CONTACT US and LET OTHER PARENTS know that they can trust all Zejtun Corinthians Youth Nursery Staff with their kids' development. Contact Technical Director Renzo Kerr-Cumbo on renzo@zejtuncorinthians.com or mobile 79 61 79 13
Sat 1
- A good number of Member Clubs Secretaries attended another interesting talk in a series of Lectures organised by the MFA Committee for Administrators during this current year.
MFA Senior Vice-President, Mr Carmelo Bartolo, who is also Chairman of the Medical Committee of the Association made a short introduction whereupon he stressed on the importance of the day’s topic. He mentioned particular cases which took place locally and abroad and warned of repercussions from sanctions which may have damaging effects to both players and their respective clubs.
Dr David Attard, the Malta National ‘A’ Team Doctor explained in detail, through a power-point presentation, the anti-doping regulations and procedures to be adopted by the Association this season in conformity with the directives outlined by both UEFA and WADA. Reference was made to the list of prohibited substances mentioned in the MFA Doping Charter, the UEFA Anti-Doping Regulations and the WADA 2009 Prohibited List which are now found on the MFA website. Special mention was also made to the Therapeutic Use Exemptions Form (TUE) which has to filled in and submitted in due time by the respective Member Clubs.
Random checks will be resumed in all competitions and stadia under the auspices of the Association’s competitions this season and samples will be analysed in a WADA approved laboratory in Germany.
Ample time was given to all those who attended to forward questions of this important topic.
- Hibernians Supporters Club will be organising a BBQ Night at the Hibernians Ground on Saturday 8th August. Music and entertainment wil be provided.
Hibernians president Tony Bezzina will be addressing those present.
Tickets are available from the Hibernians club premises in Pjazza Paola, the Paola Hibs Youth Nursery premises and from members of the Supporters Club. For more info phone 7943 3338.