Stripes in bid to write history
by Ayrton Galea - 24th July 2013
Maltese Champions Birkirkara FC will be seeking to complete their dream to be the first Maltese team to make it to third round of the UEFA Champions League. Following a goal-less first-leg draw, they will face NK Maribor in Slovenia this evening.
A superb performance on Tuesday by the Stripes was not enough to earn them a win due to lack of luck as they hit the post twice, once in each half, with the second one in the 89th minute following a low shot by Mifsud Triganza.
Despite the goal-less draw, which slightly favours the opponents, the Maltese Champions deserve credit for their brilliant performance that outclassed their much more quoted opponents.
Today's stern test to the Stripes might be a total different story. Opponents NK Maribor, who will be playing at their own stadium backed by their thousands of fans will begin this match as hot favourites to clinch the victory and the qualification.
However, the Stripes' high spirit could spring a surprise. The squad have trained hard and under the guidance of Mr. Paul Zammit, they can produce another major surprise to write a new page in the history of Maltese Football.
The Stripes are expected to have a full-squad available as there are no injured or suspended players.
In preparation for this match, we talked with our captain Gareth Sciberras and vice-captain, Paul Fenech who certainly expressed hopes that the Stripes make it to the next round.
Gareth told us, “Last Tuesday's match was a very positive display by the team. We were strong in every department, the players obeyed the coach's instructions and played as a unit against a very strong team. We could have won the game and that would have put us in a better position for the second leg but I think we have the courage for the away match and go into this next battle believing that we can achieve a positive result.
“We have to remain cautious in our approach but at the same time find the right moment to attack our opponents effectively. It won't be easy but we have a great squad complimented by our technical staff that can rise up for this great occasion.”
MFA Footballer of the Year, Paul Fenech said, “About our last match it was a very good game from our side. All the players knew exactly what was our roles and jobs. We were unlucky that we went out of the pitch with only a draw.
“Regarding our next match, we are working where we can hit NK Maribor and work on the final pass, because in my opinion, last game that was the reason that we acheived only a draw. For sure, it will be a difficult match, but if we keep concentrated throughout the ninety minutes, we will be rewarded.”
The match will be played at the Stadion Ljudski VRT in Maribor, Slovenia and it is scheduled to kick off at 20:00 CET.
Come on the Stripes!
| Last Matches Played |
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30 June 2007 - UEFA Intertoto Cup
 Birkirkara FC
1-2
 NK Maribor
|
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24 June 2007 - UEFA Intertoto Cup
Birkirkara FC
0-3
NK Maribor
|
