Although a decision has not yet been taken regarding the future of certain clubs who were involved in match-fixing allegations, ‘the show must go on’ were the words of MFA President Joe Mifsud during the draws of the BOV National football leagues held yesterday at the Centenary Hall in Ta’ Qali.
However Dr Mifsud was also adamant that sporting justice had to be done in this regard when he also outlined the drastic steps taken by the association itself to stamp out corruption. He also indicated that the association would be taking all the measures in its power to stamp out the evil weed of corruption which could still threaten to overwhelm the sport.
Dr Mifsud said that there were positive signs which came out of last season’s performances in the national leagues with attendances increasing by over 30,000 in the Premier League alone and by 27,000 overall in all leagues. He said that this showed a good increase in the popularity of the sport and that it was thriving.
The MFA President also outlined various activities which were to take place this forthcoming season due to the fact that the 100th anniversary of the first championship held in Malta in 1909/10 was due to be celebrated as well as the 50th anniversary of the MFA joining FIFA and UEFA in 1959/60. Apart from a tournament called the League 100th Anniversary Cup which would feature all the 52 teams there would also be a quiz for schoolchildren, articles in ‘Saghtar Magazine’ and a commemorative set of postage stamps to mark this important anniversary.
Dr Mifsud also spoke extensively on the corruption issue where he also praised the media for taking a forthright approach on the issue which galvanised the government and police to take action. He reiterated the MFA’s zero tolerance approach to such practices and reaffirmed his stance to continue fighting this ‘beast’ with all powers possible.
The MFA President also revealed that a prestigious UEFA Executive Committee Meeting which will be chaired by President Michel Platini will take place in Malta in January 2010.