Floriana’s Jan Artz a happy man

Jan Artz (Floriana)

Floriana’s Dutch coach Jan Artz was a very happy man at the end of the city and suburban derby clash last Saturday at Ta’ Qali. He said: “This is a big moment for me. After all the disappointments we had of late, we showed great team spirit and managed to beat Valletta although to come from behind was very difficult.”

He was very pleased with Julian Briffa’s performance for succeeding in blotting out Valletta’s most dangerous player Gilbert Agius.

“This win was fantastic for the Floriana supporters whose team failed to beat Valletta in the previous 14 games but now they know they can do it.”

The coach was pleased that his team was reaching the desired standards – that is playing good football and not only fighting.

Paul Zammit (Valletta)

A disappointed Zammit said that after going in front, his team lost ground and conceded Floriana too much of the initiative. They were erratic in their finishing, and failed to capitalise whenever they caught Floriana’s defence on the hop.

He reminded that the past month was a very difficult one for Valletta, including himself personally, administration and players. A change in mid-season is no easy thing.

His aim is to help players improve mentally after such a devastating defeat.

“I understand the Valletta feelings after a derby defeat and how hard to overcome it in the coming matches which Valletta have to play in a very short period”

The Championship Pool remains Valletta’s main challenge. Every coming match becomes more difficult especially because time is running out.

“Physically and tactically we need to work harder in the coming days” he said.

As regards any new signings come January, Zammit answered that that is not on the agenda for the moment. They have to work with the present group of players to reach their aim.