by The final match of this first weekend will be played between Swieqi United and Mtarfa, which will be played just after the encounter between Hibernians and Valletta. This match preview highlights the ambitions of both sides as they head into their first match of the season and beyond.
Coaches Discuss Expectations Heading Toward the Season
The final fixture of the weekend will pit Swieqi United against Mtarfa. Last season it was a fixture that often featured heavily one-sided scorelines as the Owls chased the title, while Mtarfa often were focused on limiting the damage. However, the summer has brought change for both sides, not just in the recruitment of players, but also in technical roles (Swieqi United) and improvement in facilities for Mtarfa.
Swieqi United opted to promote Saviour Darmanin into the head coaching and technical director role for the women’s sector, following his work in the goalkeeping sector of the club. Ahead of his first match in charge of the team, Swieqi United’s new head coach noted his enthusiasm to build on last season’s second-place finish in the league and to continue building on the momentum from winning the Assikura Women’s Knockout.
Darmanin showed his excitement toward the season, “I’m looking forward to it. I believe the aim should always be to improve, so considering Swieqi United finished in second place last season, one step better would be to finish first and win the league. It will not be easy, because as we know Birkirkara have a mature and capable squad, while there are also many teams who have strengthened suggesting that this year it is not necessarily going to be a two-horse race. So I am looking forward, not just for the match but for the season.”
The coach also noted that it will take time for things to completely click into place. He said, “There has also been a lot of change in the staff, together with the introduction of new players who will take time to adapt and also to get used to what I am requesting of them.” Additionally, Darmanin also alluded to the awaited return of a number of key players currently missing through injury, “As we know the season is long and there are also many issues to deal with, including injuries to prominent players including a some who play for the Malta national team. I am sure that their return will also boost the team both because of their ability, but also through their experience.”
Meanwhile, Mtarfa’s coach Simon Spiteri also noted the improvement in training and the positive shift since changing the training facilities. “During pre-season we went through a well-organised periodization program, with the aim to best prepare our players for the season.” He continued, “Having state of the art facility with a set training schedule has helped us to plan our training. Commitment of our players has improved with players hardly missing a training session. If the commitment and dedication stays the same throughout the season, it will definitely help our young players improve.”
Match Expectations
Questioned about his expectations going into the match, also with the hindsight of previous positive results obtained by his predecessors against the Blues, Darmanin showed ambition to win but also warned of keeping feet on the ground and being humble in their quest for the win. Swieqi’s coach said, “We need to take things game by game. I believe it is important to respect everyone and as we know a lot of things can happen in a match. It is important that we are ready to overcome any challenges that arise and to also enjoy playing our game.”
Mtarfa’s coach Simon Spiteri was probed as to what his expectations will be going into the match against an opponent which has troubled the team in the past. He said, “Swieqi are a tough team and I believe they can offer a challenge to the league contenders. However, we have also strengthened our foundation in the women’s sector. This year we want to improve our performances, while also continuing to showcase young players alongside our experienced players, with also a number of new foreign signings.”
He continued, “The opening match is always important and we hope to be able to apply our training into practice, gain experience and move forward. Winning remains the priority of every coach but we also respect the strength of our opponents who have also invested in players who can make a difference on the pitch.”
A Few Words On The Lineups
Questioned about whether he will be fielding any debutants in the match, Saviour Darmanin confirmed the intention but gave little away as to whom that might be. He said, “There will surely be debutants, who may start or who may be introduced in the match. The squad contains many youngsters who will have their chance to show their ability and these opportunities are important for them to start showing their consistency throughout the length of the season, in a competitive setting.”
Meanwhile, questioned about the appearance of any debutants, Simon Spiteri noted a number of signings have been made over the off-season, including Kenyan Shauline Maoga and Italian Alice Ferrari. Additionally, the club has also promoted a number of youth players including Maria Zarb, Laura Andrea Tobon, Rachel Sultana and Amy Mizzi. He also mentioned the addition of the more experienced duo of Oriana Bedingfield and Pamela Schembri.
The match will be the second to be played at the Dingli Ground at 21:00. It follows the encounter between Hibernians and Valletta which kicks off at 18:30. Its match preview may be read here. Tickets will be 2.50 Euro at the door.
Lead Images: Michael Azzopardi / Dodo’s Photography
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