The Maltese national football team is often criticised following bad results it obtains against much stronger opposition. Very often, in the past, Malta has lost heavily against the big guns and there have also been defeats against teams of a similar standard.

So the Maltese lads deserve a big pat on the back for winning against Hungary late last year and drawing against Moldova a few days ago. The minimal defeat against Greece could also have been avoided, were it not for the controversial penalty, and subsequent expulsion, awarded by the referee.

What is important, however, is that the national team is once again attracting big crowds at Ta’ Qali, as could be seen last Wednesday. It shows that when the supporters see an effort from the team, they gladly turn up to give their backing.

The stadium last Wednesday was almost packed to capacity. Let us hope that this is the start of a new era for the national side. We cannot expect miracles, but good results are possible.

I congratulate the players and the coaches for their excellent perform-ances and results obtained of late. Keep it up.

Sandro Camilleri

Mosta