Mgarr Seeking To Maintain Consistency Against Centennial San Gwann

Mgarr United will be looking to maintain their advantage at the top as they face San Gwann this evening at Dingli Ground (18:00). San Gwann’s Julian Camilleri weighed in on their centennial performance and milestones for the club, calling for consistency in approach with sight set on giving the league leaders a tough time. Ryan Vella called on his team to maintain the attitude in search of further consistency while giving an update on absentees in the side.

Consistent Wins Despite Seasonal Struggles & A Centennial Milestone

The last match of the weekend will pit San Gwann against league leaders Mgarr United. San Gwann head into it following a defeat to Swieqi United, one in which they showed better possession but struggling to convert it into goals.

Julian Camilleri gave his view of the match, considering two debutants and a return for Martina Schembri, “We prepared well. Since we had three new players it wasn’t easy to connect the various departments. However, I think we trialled some things against Swieqi and a lot of things worked offensively. We still have a lot to work on but I think we’re going in the right direction.”

The match was special for San Gwann, with the team reaching it’s 100th appearance in the Assikura Women’s League. Questioned on what he things is the biggest achievement to date, Camilleri replied, “I think last season was our biggest milestone achievement, when you consider that in the first season the team was in the last place and within two seasons we reached the first place in the bottom pool, and also reached the semi-final of the cup.” The next big target is clear as well, “To break into the top four.”

At the other end is Mgarr United, who as one of the longest involved in the women’s game continued to push forward on their charge for a maiden league title with a win against Valletta. The team had to wait until the 30th minute, but put the result beyond doubt with four goals in ten minutes.

Ryan Vella suggested there was no surprise in the time needed to find the first goal, “The first thing we talked about pre-game was to not panic if the first goal doesn’t come early. It is very normal after a month away from games that the team needed some minutes to settle and play to the usual tempo. After settling in the game I thought that the team did a fantastic job in moving the ball quicker and creating chances which on another day would have resulted in more goals.”

Although the Greens secured another victory, the team continues to be another side battling injuries, with a few longer-term ones. Ryan Vella confirmed that Abigail Camilleri’s absence was injury-related, “Abi had some discomfort but is now match ready.” There was positive news on the return of Luz Hernandez who has been sidelined for a lengthy spell, “Luz had a hamstring issue and returned back fully this week.”

Meanwhile, there was also a positive update on Veronique Mifsud & Ann-Marie Said though their return timelines appear less certain, “Ann-Marie and Veronique are both progressing well and are currently training on the pitch. We still do not have a date of return but we’re hopeful that they’ll join the team soon.”

Mgarr Pushing For More As San Gwann Attempt To Make Further Inroads

Mgarr United are yet to lose a match in the league this year, making clear the challenge that San Gwann face tonight considering that the team is yet to find a point against any of the top four.

However, Julian Camilleri is pushing his team for more, while praising the Mgarr United structured approach, “We always aim for points. We must adapt to the opposition and the players that we have available. Mgarr are strong because they stuck to a system, haven’t made too many changes, brought in some reinforcements and retained their strengths. They have a strong will to achieve their goals and they are doing well.”

Ryan Vella was questioned whether he believes that San Gwann’s reinforcements force any adaptation from his team tonight or whether the Greens are now in a position where others will be forced to adapt to them. “⁠I feel that in our position we cannot change much. The team has good momentum and is currently playing really well.”

However, Vella equally praised his opposition, while warning his side against complacency, “San Gwann will be a tough test. They brought in a couple of good foreigners in key areas and they have a good coach who’s always willing to try new things to get the best out of his players. We look forward for another tough challenge.”

The two will kick-off at 18:00 at Dingli Ground.

Lead Image: Brandon Bonett

Stay up to date by following The Sporting Fan on social media: Instagram ~ Facebook ~ X