First league upset for Rabat Punch & Judy
Artificial turf pitch project underway at Corradino
Rabat Punch & Judy's unbeaten run in the national league came to an end on Sunday when they were beaten by The Athlete's Foot 1-0. The unexpected setback meant that Punch & Judy had to postpone their league victory celebrations. One can hardly imagine them not taking the point they need from their remaining three matches though.
For a number of reasons this year's championship has moved along in fits and starts. However, the association is expecting no other problems for the last three weekends. Games were shifted to the second pitch at the hockey complex as the main one has been dug up to make way for the laying of an artificial grass surface.
The completion of this project will be a dream come true for all hockey enthusiasts. David Agius, Hockey Association (Malta) secretary, is hoping that season 2003/04 will see local competitions played on the new surface.
Back to Sunday's games and Punch & Judy faced a frustrating morning when they failed to find a way past a compact Sliema defence. The Athlete's Foot played one of their best games of the season. They scored the winner late in the second half when Liam Pace fired in first-time following a free hit from Michael Caruana Smith.
A goal three minutes into the second half, from Luke Busuttil Leaver, saw The George Pub getting the better of Pasta Poiatti and allowed them to move into second place.
For Busuttil Leaver, Sunday's goal was his fifth of the season. At last, he seems to be showing his potential of a true goal-scorer.
The league continues on Sunday with The Athlete's Foot facing Pasta Poiatti at 9 a.m. and leaders Punch & Judy up against Young Stars at 11 a.m. in what promises to be an intriguing encounter.