Malta today will be facing a crucial test at the Hibs Ground, as it faces Serbia & Montenegro in a World Cup qualifier starting at 1pm.
Cisk Lager is again supporting the acclaimed Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU) and their activities.
National coach Damien Neill is banking on the support of the local crowd at this ‘new’ rugby venue to push the Maltese towards an important win which will increase the locals’ chances of qualifying.
The Maltese had narrowly beaten Serbnia & Montenegro in the away first leg.
“The Serbs will be bent on taking revenge for the narrow defeat inflicted on them by the gallant Maltese boys last year, who require absolutely every last gram of skill, strength and stamina. The strong Serbs were upset to be beaten by “little” Malta and have massive national pride of their own,” he said.
Neill added: “We are expecting a very tough match and we will therefore need all the support from the local enthusiasts,” he said.
The squad is at present accommodated at the Corinthia Jerma Palace Hotel in Marsascala, part sponsors of the team which has been training daily at the Hibs Ground since Monday. The players have commented favourably about the excellent surface at that ground which is well known in local football circles.
Damien Neill is rebuilding the Malta side and is keeping his cards very close to his chest. In announcing the squad of 22 players for the match, Neill selected players from local rugby clubs, namely Stompers RFC, Kavallieri RFC and Alligators RFC – they are contributing no fewer than seven players. These are Ian Borda, Robert Bonavia, David Gasan, Daniel Grima, Matthew Mirabelli, Chris Vassallo and Sean Doublesin.
The others, from among whom the starting line-up will be selected, are Dean Zammit, Harry Collins, Martin Mallia, Tom Webb, Luke Watts, Steve Kempster, Dominic St George, Paul Cioffi, Dominic Busuttil, John Dimmond, Mark Cuschieri, Jasmie Caruana, Oliver Sacco, Nick Warren and Joe Sultana. Watts and Busuttil are both newcomers to the squad.
An admission fee of Lm2 will be charged on Saturday but those Under 16 will be admitted free of charge.