Assistant national coach Carmel Busuttil (left) was highly pleased with the goalless draw obtained by the national team against an Andalusian Selection on Wednesday night in Sevilla.

Speaking on the team’s arrival yesterday, ‘Il-Busu’ said he and national coach Horst Heese were not only pleased with the result, but also with the performance of the newcomers. “Alex Muscat and Jamie Pace had a great full debut while Massimo Grima was outstanding in midfield when he played in the second half.

“We might have expected something better from our boys, but considering the circumstances and the limited selection we had at our disposal, I must say we are highly satisfied,” he said.

The assistant coach also lauded Andrew Cohen and Stephen Wellman. “Though isolated up front, Cohen worked very hard, while Wellman was given another try at the back and he came out with flying colours. It is a pity Floriana make use of him everywhere except in the position where he is showing he is stronger,” said Busuttil.

National teams secretary Ivan Vella also showered praise on the whole side. “It is difficult to single out a player who did not perform well. But I must mention goalkeeper Justin Haber whose four excellent saves, including a penalty, saved the result for Malta,” said Vella.

He also said that Peter Pullicino stayed at the hotel as he was indisposed and the coaches did not take any risk with Barbara who was still feeling the effects of a knock he received in the Super Five Cup match against Hibernians on Sunday.