The chances of a second consecutive promotion for Malta to League A of the U-19’s European Championship qualifications were dealt a heavy blow after a 4-2 defeat at the hands of the Faroe Islands.
Led by Frank Schembri, Malta has picked up three points having played their two games in this three-team group.
The remaining match in this group will be between the Faroe Islands and hosts Armenia – on Monday, with the Nordic nation having the opportunity to clinch promotion with either a draw or a victory.
Coach Schembri kept faith with the starting formation he deployed in the opener against Armenia but was forced to make an early change after captain Alexandra Gatt picked up an injury and was replaced by Izabella Camilleri.
The Faroe Islands drew first blood through Malena Olsen just before half-time.
After the change of ends, Malta’s game became even more difficult when winger Sarah Vella Barberi was given the marching orders after a second yellow card.
Nonetheless, the Maltese managed to cancel the one-goal deficit and take the lead with goals from Michela Ionadi and Sara Saliba.
However, they failed to control their one-goal lead with the Faroe Islands scoring three times in a span of seven minutes.
Lisa Haraldsen scored twice between the 81st and 84th minute before Anna Braendstrup sealed the win with a fourth goal on minute 88.
