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'The players deserve full credit' – Malta U21 coach Vella

Published: 13-10-2018 14:10
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The morning after the Malta Under 21 team enjoyed what could easily be considered as one of the most memorable nights for Maltese football in recent years, for the players it was business as usual as they took part in a light recovery session. On Friday, a plucky performance saw the Malta U21s obtain a nailbiting 2-1 win over Hungary to collect first three points in a very difficult European Championship Qualifying group 6. www.mfa.com.mt spoke to coach Silvio Vella following this welcoming win matured at the dying seconds with Myles Beerman firing home following an accurate through-ball from captain Jurgen Degabriele. “We beat a strong Hungary side who, before this game against us, had a very positive run, picking up points against the top teams in the group," the Malta U-21 coach said. "After their home draw against Sweden, we knew it was going to be hard but the boys played an excellent match, mentally we were strong, and finally we reaped the rewards of the hard work done so far. “Most of the players in this squad will no longer be eligible to play at Under-21 level after the final group match against Cyprus next Tuesday, hence this game was the perfect showcase as most of them continue pursuing their dream of playing at senior level. “The players should take full credit for this win over Hungary... 90 minutes where we rose to the occasion, fought relentlessly and avoided the mistakes that haunted us in previous matches. The right determination and tactical discipline contributed to this successful night. “This win gives us the needed push to face Cyprus on Tuesday with the right attitude, I don’t want to put pressure on my boys. In the coming days leading up to this game we must keep working hard and like we did on Friday, we try to be offensive and clinical in front of goal." On Friday against Hungary, Vella opted for a more offensive 4-3-3 formation with Jake Galea brilliant in goal, Michele Sansone and Kurt Zammit exceptional on the flanks, joined in defence by the no non-sense attitude and play of Jean Borg and Karl Micallef. In the middle of the park, Zack Scerri, Matthew Guillaumier and Dunstan Vella were also impressive, together with the attacking trio of Jurgen Degabriele, Kyrian Nwoko, and the scorer of the winning goal at the end,  Beerman who caused constant problems to the Hungarian defence. Beerman, playing on loan with Birkirkara from Glasgow Rangers relived the moment he scored the winning goal. “I’m grateful to be part of this fantastic group of players," Beerman said. "We have all been working hard but were unlucky in some matches. Notwithstanding the difficulites in a very tough group, finally the points are here... iit’s true I scored the winning goal, but credit goes to the technical staff and the rest of players for this result. Beerman added: “Yesterday’s win definitely helped to revive our confidence at the right time to face Cyprus on Tuesday with a positive attitude, and hope to end this competition on a high note.”