Malta impress in match against FYR Macedonia

Malta 1 - FYR Macedonia 1
Scorers: Ivan Trichovski 37' Michael Mifsud 47'

Recently appointed MFA President Norman Darmanin Demajo could not have started his reign in a better way.

Malta went into this match knowing they have lost against FYR Macedonia in five previous meetings.

Malta started on attach when in the 11th minute Gareth Sciberras missed by just a metre with a shot from the distance.

FYR Macedonia tried their luck when Lico Naumoski missed a great opportunity infront of goal when he was given a great pass from Goran Pandev.

On the 37th minute FYR Macedonia went ahead with a goal from Ivan Trickovski. Goran Pandev hit the woodwork with a shot from inside the box, and off the rebound Mario Gjurovski chipped the ball in the area and Ivan Trickovski made no mistake with his header.

The second half was a totally different story. Malta came on the pitch with not only the desire to get a draw but to win the match.

Michael Mifsud got the equaliser in the 47th minute when he received a perfect cross from Roderick Briffa to head it in.

Malta could have easily went in front when Michael Mifsud ran the length of the pitch with the ball and placed it at the far right post to only see it brush against the post and go wide.

Malta also had another chance when a header by Gareth Sciberras was denied by the FYR Macedonia goalkeeper.

Malta had most of the possession in the second half and a visibly tired FYR Macedonia could not keep up with the quick counter attacks of Malta.

This match prepared team Malta well for the upcoming matches away to Israel on 2 September and a home match against Latvia on 7 September.