Ahead of the weekend's FA Trophy quarter-finals, the respective coaches of the 8 teams involved spoke to the media during a Malta FA media activity at the Trophies Lounge, Ta' Qali.
On Saturday, Pieta' Hotspurs will come face to face with Gzira United, kick-off 14:00 hours with Mosta crossing swords with Birkirkara in the match to follow at 16:00 hours. Both matches to be played at the Hibernians Stadium. Sunday will see Tarxien Rainbows meeting Balzan, at 14:00 hours with the big match between the two title contenders Hibernians and double-winners Valletta to follow at 16:00 hours at the National Stadium.
Holders Valletta will come face to face with none other than silverware contenders Hibernians in the big match on Sunday. Head coach Danilo Doncic spoke with the Malta Independent about this delicate confrontation. "A very important meeting against a very good team, Hibernians - our main title contenders. I here call again and expect a bumper Valletta crowd on Sunday to help us go through this hurdle yet again. Our supporters are our 12th man on the pitch so here I do thank them. Of course we have quality as well so I do expect us to go through."
Newly appointed Gzira head coach Jesmond Zerafa also gave his views as his side prepares to meet Pieta' Hotspurs. "Obviously our objective is that of winning the trophy at this point of the competition. I am aware of the potential status of this team but of course luck has to play its' part in these competitions. Since taking over at Gzira I rate this club as complete in all divisions. Gzira are now highly esteemed. This is why I and everyone wants to succeed in our objective of landing silverware." Gzira United last won the FA Trophy in 1973 - the only silverware won by the Maroons.
Underdogs Pieta' Hotspurs will be Gzira's opponents on Saturday. Head coach Ramon Zammit had this to say, "Our main objective is keeping our Premier Division status. But of course now that we are here, we will be giving it our all against Gzira. A very difficult and prestigious match. We have already drew 1-1 with Gzira this season so I expect anything to happen."
Copyright © Domenic Aquilina/The Malta Independent