Partizani will take us more seriously, says Marsaxlokk coach Muscat

Marsaxlokk coach Winston Muscat is expecting a fierce backlash from Albanian giants Partizani in Thursday’s UEFA Conference League, first qualifying round, second leg at the Centenary Stadium (kick-off: 7pm).

The Southseasiders impressed on their return to European football last week when they managed to hold the more-quoted Partizani to a 1-1 draw in the opening leg in Albania and could have also come away with a win had they taken their chances late in the match.

A fine goal by Yuri Messias enabled Marsaxlokk to secure a 1-1 draw that leaves the tie wide open, Marsaxlokk will surely fancy their chances of upsetting Partizani in today’s second leg. However, coach Muscat is wary of a backlash from the Albanians after their poor first-leg display.

“To come away with a 1-1 draw against a team of the quality of Partizani is surely a very prestigious result for our club,” Muscat told the Times of Malta.

“It’s not easy to get a draw against team of that quality on their home turf. I have no doubt that the second leg will be even harder for us as Partizani now have good knowledge of what kind of team we are and what to expect from us.

“I believe that in the first leg they didn’t give us the respect that we deserved, and I am sure they will be more prepared for us on Thursday and will come here to win the match.

“It’s going to be a difficult match for us, but not impossible particularly if we manage to put up a performance similar to what we had in the first leg.”

Asked what was the secret behind Marsaxlokk’s fine display in Albania, Muscat was clear in his response.

“Tactical discipline was the key factor for us,” Muscat said.

“The players knew that there were going to be moments where the team had to suffer, and they were ready for it. Mentally they were very strong in these difficult moments. I spoke to the players that there were two ways on how to get a positive result, and it worked out well. Actually, with a bit more luck we could have also sneaked the win as we had a great chance at the death.”

Muscat said that he expects more of the same from the players today and wants them to play an intelligent game.

“We need to use our brain if we are to secure qualification,” he said.

“We are aware of our strength and need to exploit them fully. The team needs to close all spaces for their forwards and make the most of the chances that come our way. I have full faith in the players that we can achieve something exceptional if we are at our best.”

Note: The Times of Malta will carry a live commentary of the clash between Marsaxlokk and Partizani