The Malta women’s national team produced a bright display as they held 19th-ranked Switzerland to a 2-2 draw in a friendly match at the Centenary Stadium on Tuesday.
After a hard-fought first 45 minutes ended goalless, the Maltese twice had to come from behind to peg back a strong Swiss side and record yet another positive result in the second half.
Following a goalless first half, Switzerland forged ahead on the 50th minute when Irina Pando managed to beat Xuereb with a low drive. Malta’s reaction was immediate and one minute later, Stephania Farrugia equalised following a corner action.
The Swiss regained their lead two minutes later, Pando heading the ball over the on-rushing Xuereb. However, the Maltese team hit back strongly to level the scores through Ylenia Carabott who, after receiving from Brenda Borg, slotted past the Swiss goalkeeper.
Gatt handed a debut to Sydney Schembri in the final 10 minutes as Gatt sought put in fresh legs, especially up front.
Mark Gatt’s team face Turkey in another friendly match on Friday also, at the Centenary Stadium, kick-off 15.00.
MALTA Janice Xuereb, Nicole Sciberras, Stephania Farrugia, Ann-Marie Said, Jade Flask, Charlene Zammit, Shona Zammit, Dorianne Theuma, Brenda Borg, Haley Bugeja, Ylenia Carabott.
Subs used: Alishia Sultana, Sydney Schembri, Martina Borg, Veronique Mifsud.SWITZERLAND Seraina Friedli, Lorena Baumann, Kim Dubs, Carola Fasel, Malin Gut, Lara Marti, Irina Pando, Nathalia Spalti, Julia Stierli, Marilena Widmer, Cinzia Zehnder.
Subs used: Michele Schnider, Leans Zaugg, Arfaoui Amira, Noa Scharz, Nadine Riesen.Referee: Fyodor Zammit.