Preview: U*Bet FA Trophy semi final Published on: 16-05-2010
Valletta will meet Hamrun Spartans in the first semi-final of the U*BET FA Trophy tomorrow at 19.30hrs. Without any doubt, a target for Valletta now would be that of winning the U*Bet FA Trophy.
The FA Trophy is the second major honour the local football offers and winning this honour also means securing a place in the first qualifying round of the Europa League. Valletta have in the past won the FA Trophy eleven times. The last time the FA Trophy entered the capital city was in season 2000-01. Last season, Valletta reached the final of this competition, but failed to win the U*Bet FA Trophy after losing to Sliema Wanderers following a penalty shoot-out. Valletta reached the semi-final of the U*Bet FA Trophy after eliminating Birkirkara 3-1, while Hamrun Spartans eliminated holders Sliema Wanderers 5-2.
Ton Caanen, the Citizen's coach will have some key players missing from the squad, Gilbert Agius and Edmond Agius are both suspended. International midfielder Jamie Pace is also unavailable; Pace received an injury during the National team's friendly match against Germany last Thursday. Dutch midfielder Jordi Cruyff is still recovering from an injury.
Steve D’Amato, the Spartans coach will have to do without striker Ian Zammit, the latter received marching orders from the referee during the quarter-finals of the U*Bet FA Trophy.
Valletta met Hamrun S. twice this season. Valletta won both matches 3-2 and 4-0 respectively.
