Despite a positive first half performance, Malta’s youngsters suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat by Italy yesterday in the qualifying mini- tournament of the UEFA Under 17 European Championshps held in Malta.

This was Malta’s second defeat after going down to Serbia 0-2 on the opening day.

The Maltese boys held the initiative for most of the first period yesterday and even created some chances, through Miguel Ciantar, but conceded Italy’s first goal towards the half hour when Paloschi headed in from a corner.

The Italians were more agressive in the second half and Malta keeper Micahael Incorvaja twice came to his side’s rescue with good blocks on Forestieri and Paloschi.

italy deservingly doubled their lead on 58 minutes again with a headed effort by Masi.

Paloschi beat Incorvaja with a fine shot seven minutes later and Malta collapsed to concede a fourth goal by Forestieri 15 minutes from the end.

This swcond win secures Italy a place in the elite round, together with Serbia, who also registered their second consecutive win yesterday.

In fact Serbia found little difficulty to beat Andorra by four clear goals in yesterday’s first match. They took a 3-0 lead by half-time and despite their technical superiority the Serbs scored only one other goal in the second period.

Next Wednesday, Italy and Serbia will play each other to decide the Group winners while Malta and Andorra will fight it out to avoid bottom place in the Group.