by Saturday’s double-header starts with another highly anticipated clash between San Gwann and Mtarfa at 15:00 at Dingli Ground. The two will be an eyeing an opportunity for their first three points this season.
Returning From The Break
The two sides had tough starts to the league season, with San Gwann notching a point against Lija Athletic, while Mtarfa are still searching for their first points this season. The two coaches were asked about the utility of the international break as an opportunity to recover certain injuries, as well as to have some time to develop some new ideas tactically.
San Gwann’s Julian Camilleri replied, “It is true our start was difficult and we did not reach all our targets. We were facing top teams, as well as dealing with new injuries with every match, suspensions and limited time to prepare between matches. In this regard the international break was very useful for us to develop more physically which was one of the factors that we were most struggling with. We also worked on developing our tactical system.”
Questioned about the injury situation of his squad, Camilleri noted that the break allowed the team to recover a number of injuries, while others are still in the rehabilitation phase. Probed about Shania Gheiti’s recovery, as well as the long-term injuries he noted, “Shania Gheiti will be available for selection against Mtarfa. On the other hand, Shania Borg and Rhea Borg will be undergoing surgery on match day and we wish them a successful procedure and the best for their recovery.”
Meanwhile, speaking about the utilisation of the past three weeks, Mtarfa’s Simon Spiteri said, “We suffered three heavy defeats, however, our determination is our strength to carry on with this project. The international window was very useful for us as it gave us time to recover key players.”
Expectations From The Match
The two sides took points off each other last year, and will want to renew those positive memories as they face each other once more this season. Three points could lift the teams to sixth place in the table (depending on results elsewhere), as well as injecting a morale boost in the squads. Both sides recruited over the summer and it will be interesting to see where the two sides stand as they meet for the first time this season.
Questioned on whether he thinks his team could win the match convincingly or if he expects a balanced match, San Gwann’s Julian Camilleri said, “I do not like to speak too soon and then regret my words. However, I think we have prepared well to get a victory and I believe that my team will give more than their hundred percent to fight for every single ball.”
Asked a similar question about his team’s chances of winning the encounter following last year’s two victories over San Gwann, Mtarfa’s Simon Spiteri replied, “There is no rivalry between the two clubs. It just happens that we adopt the same philosophy of promoting young players and both of us know that from these games one may earn points due to the equilibrium that exists between the two teams.”
The Importance of Support
The two sides enjoy a strong and loud group of supporters who made their presence known in the past, irrespective of the opponent they faced. However, noting that this match presents a strong opportunity for the three points, the two coaches were questioned whether they believe that presence of these supporters will be even more crucial on Saturday.
San Gwann’s Julian Camilleri said, “I believe that having that support is a big boost and it gives our players more courage to sustain their effort throughout the match.” Mtarfa’s Simon Spiteri nodded to the importance of support but was defiant against the idea that this match is any different for those truly supporting his club. He said, “Supporters help the players in the pitch but I cannot find why these games may attract more supporters than other. If any one is attending for the game is because they are behind the team in every weather condition.”
The match begins at 15:00 at Dingli Ground, and will be followed by the encounter between Mgarr United and Lija Athletic at 17:30.
Lead Images: Dorienne Grech / Lara Schembri
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