Jubilee Cup – 125 Anniversary
MESA ……………………………….1
Malta Veterans Nat Team ……2
Preliminary Round
Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza scored twice to send the Malta Veterans National Team into the first round of the MFA’s Jubilee Cup against MESA.
The match, played at the Centenary Stadium, was the very first in this one-off tournament. Both sides were aiming to make history by claiming the opening win, as they met in the preliminary round.
It was a tough and closely contested match, with neither side able to break the deadlock before half-time. The Veterans, led by former coach Joe Micallef, started as favourites, with familiar names like Kevin Sammut, Gareth Sciberras, Kurt Magro and Mano Micallef in midfield, supporting the attacking pair of Ian Zammit and Mifsud Triganza.
Despite having more of the ball, the Veterans struggled to break down a disciplined MESA side, who surprised many by taking the lead in the 77th minute. Jean Carlos Ibarra finished off a quick counter-attack with a low shot past veteran goalkeeper Matthew Camilleri, scoring the first-ever goal in Jubilee Cup history.
MESA, coached by Mark Marlow, fielded a mix of experienced players and younger talent, with Mauro Bonnici impressing in central defence. Their squad also featured familiar names from amateur football like Ronnie Celeste and Mohammad Issa.
However, MESA’s lead didn’t last long. Just two minutes later, Mifsud Triganza calmly slotted in the equaliser. And in the dying moments, he struck again, this time with a superb header, to win the game and seal the Veterans’ place in the next round.
The Malta Veterans will now face the winner of tonight’s match between SWAN and GIDA.
Referee:
Ranald Portelli
