Malta scores first but loses 5-1

The Malta U-19 national team yesterday started its commitments in the UEFA U-19 Championship qualifying group on a bad note after conceding a 5-1 defeat to Denmark in Saarbrucken, Germany.

Mark Miller's boys after a promising start to the match, during which they managed to take the lead, failed to keep up the momentum.

They conceded two quick goals before the break and from then on the Danes took control of the match.

Dyson Falzon gave Malta an ideal start hitting the opener after 16 minutes of play. The Maltese youngsters seemed to be able to hold to their lead until the break.

However, Mark Miller's side were rocked by two-quick goals, in the 42nd and 43rd minutes that gave Denmark a 2-1 half-time lead.

On the resumption, the Maltese tried to get back into the match but it was Denmark who were on target again on 70 minutes.

Eight minutes later Malta defender Steve Borda limped out injured and when play resumed the Danes managed to extend their lead to 4-1.

Denmark were in total control now and they sealed their win in injury time when they notched their fifth and final goal.

Malta will now play their second match tomorrow when they face Germany in Tillingen.

The Germans yesterday beat Luxembourg 6-1.