Malta’s U19 Women team emerged winners in the first of two friendlies against Cyprus, earlier today. The team led by Frank Schembri scored a goal in each half to emerge as winners.
Schembri’s girls were brimming in confidence from the start, creating a number of chances. Leah Ayres came close to score just to be denied by the woodwork before her rebound glanced past Cyprus’ goal.
Against the run of play, Cyprus threatened Malta and were awarded a penalty after a Tammy Falzon foul inside the box. Nonetheless, Cyprus’ penalty was blocked by Malta goalkeeper Giulia D’Antuono.
On the 28th minute, Malta forged ahead when midfielder Maya Lucia was deadly with a powerful shot that stunned the Cyprus goalkeeper, to make it 1-0.
As the second half wore on, both teams started to introduce new faces on the field. Nonetheless, Malta maintained its dominance and wrapped up the win ten minutes from time when Lucia pounced on a loose ball before slotting past the goalkeeper to score a brace.
The second of a friendly double header against Cyprus will be played next Saturday, at the Ormida Municipal stadium at 10am (CET).
MALTA
Giulia D’Antuono; Tammy Falzon (Georgiana Mifsud 62’), Michaela Cachia (Ileana Farrugia 75’), Maya Lucia, Martina Fenech (Rhea Borg 75’), Alexandra Gatt ©, Veronique Mifsud, Yulya Carella, Mariah Cardona (Nicole Camenzuli 82’), Sarah Vella Barberi (Kailey Willis 46’), Leah Ayres (Emma Ciantar 62’).
Coach: Frank Schembri
CYPRUS
Adriana Mila (Antria Savva 72’); Andria Efstratiou, Aristi Prodromou (Stella Papaneofytou 58’), Eirini Morou (Lelia Rolandi 58’), Domna Stylianou (Marilla Konstantinou 72’), Maria Zamani, Kristia Kouppi © (Despoina Petrou 80’), Christina Kyriakidi (Christina Konstantinidou 72’), Anna Sofocleous (Veronika Pasioulli 80’), Georgia Terla (Athina Kollas 80’), Fotini Sergide (Antriana Galati 72’).
Coach: Savvas Sofocieous
Referee: Zoi Stavrou
Scorers: Maya Lucia 28’ 80’
Source: MFA
Photos: MFA
