Watch: In-form Maria Farrugia urges Malta to stay ruthless against Georgia in UEFA Nations League

One of Malta’s standout performers abroad this season has undoubtedly been Maria Farrugia.

The Gozitan-born forward has been a shining light in a challenging campaign for Sheffield United in the Barclays Women’s Championship, England’s second tier.

Despite her team’s struggles, Farrugia has impressed with 8 goals and 2 assists in 22 appearances across all competitions – showcasing her consistency and attacking threat.

Her club form translated seamlessly to the international stage last Friday, as she returned to scoring ways for Malta with a brilliant brace against Georgia.

Those two goals marked her 10th and 11th at international level, underlining her importance to Manuela Tesse’s side.

It was a timely return to form for the Maltese forward line, which had lacked cutting edge in the opening two matches of the group.

Farrugia’s contribution could prove vital as Malta continue their push for League B promotion which goes through Tuesday evening’s match against Georgia, at the Centenary Stadium (kick-off: 7pm).

“It felt great to get back on the scoresheet and help the team with two goals,” Farrugia told the Times of Malta.

“Personally, it’s always important to contribute, but more than that, getting the three points was crucial for our progression in the group.

“The goals gave us momentum and confidence, and I’m happy I could play a part in that.”

While defensive lapses remain a concern, Malta’s attacking display against Georgia offered plenty of encouragement for Manuela Tesse.

The sight of Maria Farrugia and Haley Bugeja – both on the scoresheet on Friday – stepping up at a crucial moment will certainly ease the coach’s mind ahead of the return fixture.

Victory on Tuesday is a must, with Malta aiming to extend their perfect record against Georgia to six straight wins.

Ranked 119th in the world, Georgia have struggled historically against Malta, and Tesse will expect her team to make that count once again.

“I think we showed more composure and creativity in the final third compared to the first two matches,” Farrugia said.

“We were more decisive, created better chances, and our movement off the ball was sharper. It’s something we’ve been working on, and it’s good to see it paying off.”

Bugeja’s goal not only helped seal the win but also brought her tally to within five of all-time top scorer Dorianne Theuma – an extra incentive for the Inter forward to keep finding the net.

The timely resurgence in attack has been well supported by a cohesive midfield and defence.

Rachel Cuschieri was instrumental with her distribution and assists, while Nicole Sciberras and Shona Zammit led the defensive efforts, stepping up into the final third when called upon.

It was a balanced team performance that Malta will need to replicate as they continue their push for promotion. Staying healthy and focused will be key, especially with several players – Zammit, Cuschieri, Bugeja, and Kailey Willis – just one booking away from suspension.

Managing those risks without compromising the team’s intensity will be a delicate but vital task for Tesse and her staff.