Malta faces another tough challenge in Tbilisi this evening when it faces Georgia in the hope of winning its first point or points in the competition. (Kick-off 7pm)

In its opening two matches, Malta suffered defeats – 3-1 in Ramat Gan against Israel and 2-0 at Ta’ Qali against Latvia.

Our opponents today, Georgia, have started on a better note drawing their opening two matches against Greece and Israel.

National coach John Buttigieg has made it clear to his players that unless they show full concentration from start to finish and look forward to getting a positive result, they will certainly be in trouble.

Despite a 2-0 win against the same Georgia at Ta’ Qali last season, it is evident that on their home territory, the match against Georgia will be a different battle.

With Justin Haber and Andre Schembri back in the Malta squad, Buttigieg may be tempted to make some change/s to the side that lost to Latvia.

On that day, the side had a disappointing first half, but rallie strongly in the second half, creating a good number of chances, though failing to convert them into the desired goals.

This is what Buttigieg will be requesting of his players this evening – a cautious performance at the back, some hard work in midfield and more precision in front of goal if the occasions arise.

Since arriving in Tbilisi (on Tuesday), where the match is being played this evening, it has been raining every day, but this did not deter the squad from undergoing the normal practice sessions. More rain is forecast for this evening during the match.

As usual, Buttigieg did not name his line-up yesterday, but it is evident that Andre Schembri will probably take the place of the suspended Daniel Bogdanovic up front along with Michael Mifsud, while Hogg should remain the No. 1 choice between the posts, despite Haber’s current good form with Ferencvaros.

Otherwise, there will be few, if any, changes. In fact, one expects the coach to keep relying on the in form Edward Herrera and Sean Bajada on the flanks with Andrei Agius and Jonathan Caruana in the heart of the defence.

In midfield, the four-man line-up should consist of Roderick Briffa, Gareth Sciberras, Jamie Pace and Andrew Cohen.