The second edition of the King Long Derby Cup between Qormi and Zebbug Rangers was launched during a press conference at Bistro 516, Valletta Waterfront. The game will be played on Wednesday 4th September at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, kick-off at 19:30. Before the game, teams from the various age-groups of the two nurseries will be playing friendly matches starting at 18:00.

Qormi FC secretary Redino Apap said this clash should raise the interest of supporters of the two teams who invested a lot this summer and also revive the rivalry between the two neighbouring teams. He appealed to supporters of the two teams to attend.

Zebbug Rangers president Joe Pace thanked Tumas Group for accepting once again to sponsor the cup. He said the club has been working hard to prepare for the forthcoming BOV First Division campaign. Pace said that thanks to coach Jesmond Zammit, the club was on the right track and will be challenging for honours.

Joe Pace went on to say that this one of the main objectives of this game is to renew the memories of the derbies between Qormi and Zebbug and also appealed to supporters to turn out for this match.

Qormi coach Tommaso Volpi said he was pleasantly surprised with the fact that two neighbouring team were working hand in hand – something he would not imagine for example in his native Rome.

Despite a disappointing start for Qormi in their Premier League campaign, Volpi said he had ambitious targets and aimed at having Qormi secure a place in the UEFA Europa League and Gudja United win promotion to the top division. He wished Zebbug Rangers success and promotion to the Premier League.

Tommaso Volpi said the club has been strengthened further and a number of players are still awaiting international clearance. New signings include Brazilian striker Jorge Pereira da Silva who returns with Qormi after a spell in Hungary with Kecskeméti TE.

Zebbug coach Jesmond Zammit said that apart from reviving the rivarly between the two clubs, the King Long Derby Cup should serve as a good test for Zebbug before the BOV First Division League kicks-off while for Qormi, this should serve as continuation during the break due to the national teams’ commitments.

Tickets for the King Long Derby Cup cost €5 for adults and €1 for children and are available from the two clubs or by phoning 79269145 (Zebbug) or 98110396 (Qormi).