The first ever Goalkeeper Battle to be held in Malta, was launched on Tuesday by Mario Muscat and Simon Grech at the Lotto outlet at The Point in Sliema.

Lotto are the main sponsors of the competition, which is to be held on Thursday 31 March, a public holiday, at the San Gwann football ground.

Muscat, the Hibernians goalkeeper and director of the Mario Muscat Goalkeepers School said this was the first time ever that such a competition was being held on these islands. “It will involve only goalkeepers and will be open to all in the following categories: Under 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19 and Seniors. Thirty two goalkeepers (the maximum) can be accepted in each category and they will battle (one against one) for a place in the final,” he said.

He said six pitches are being used, each measuring 10m x 15m, including, of course, two goalposts.

There will be a referee and a match inspector at every pitch. Also, there will be an ambulance and two nurses in attendance.

Grech said the competition will be played on a KO basis with a Trophy and a watch from Classic Jewellers going to the winners. Runners-up will also receive trophies and every participant will receive a certificate.

Every match will be of a four-minute duration. In the event of a draw, an extra two minutes will be played. If no decision is reached, the match continues till the first goal is scored.

This event will give goalkeepers the opportunity to express their potential. This time, apart from saving shots, they also have to score goals to be able to win. They can make use of the same techniques they are allowed during normal football matches, that is, use of hands and feet.

Closing date for applications is Monday 28 February. These are already available at the San Gwann Ground on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays (3.30pm-5.30pm) and on Saturdays between 8am and 10am.

For more information, one may phone 79620045 and 99496628 or send an email to [email protected] jew [email protected]