The men's national basketball team went off to a flying start yesterday beating Cyprus 93-81. It was an overall impressive display by the side guided by Roberto Ricchini with brothers Aaron and Tevin Falzon guiding the Maltese, both potting 27 points.

The Maltese were always in command, building a 13-point lead by the first quarter, a lead which was reduced to nine points by the interval. In the second part the Maltese were always in control even though Cyprus did not throw in the towel. However the Maltese who face Iceland today, made a good eight-point run to claim victory and grab the first points.

The women's national team started the defence of the gold medal won two years ago in the worst possible manner losing soundly against a superior Iceland side 61-35.

Against the side beaten in the gold medal match two years ago in San Marino, the Maltese were never in the game always chasing their opponents who built a comfortable lead early on the match and never looked back.

It was a well below par by the Maltese girls who had a very poor percentual in their attempts at basket. Much more was expected from Patricia Arguello and Amelia Simmons, with Steffi de Martino finishing as our best scorer with a mere 11 points.

Coach Angela Adamoli gave space to all players as the match progressed and it was obvious that there was no chance for our girls to make a comeback. Malta will be back in action today facing Monaco at 11am.