Stakes will be high when neighbouring rivals Mosta and Naxxar Lions face off in the Derby of the North at the Victor Tedesco Stadium on Friday.
The two sides are desperate for the three points for contrasting reasons as Naxxar need to win at all costs to revive their hopes of keeping their flickering hopes of avoiding the bottom two places in the standings.
On the other hand, Mosta are aware that a win this evening will give them mathematical certainty that they will avoid finishing in the relegation places.
For today’s match, Naxxar, who are six points away from safety, will be under the charge of new coach Winston Muscat, who replaced George Vella earlier this week.
Despite the difficult situation Naxxar find themselves in, Muscat is approaching today’s match with renewed confidence.
“I believe in this team – it’s full of talent,” Muscat told a news conference.
“If I didn’t believe in my players, I wouldn’t have accepted this challenge.I’m a person who enjoys challenges and always gives my hundred per cent.
“I want to make it clear that I never wanted to be a hurdle for coach George.
“The decision was mutual between him and the club. I spoke with George after my appointment, and it was a smooth and respectful handover. Now, it’s time to move forward.
“The team has had good performances this campaign, but the results haven’t reflected their efforts.
“What’s needed now is a stronger mentality and composure – no panic.
“It’s still early for me to get to know every player in depth, but I’m fully aware of the talent and potential within this squad.”
On his part, Naxxar Lions coach Edson Farias paid tribute to his former coach George Vella and said that there is huge determination in the squad to go for the win against Mosta.
“I learned a lot from coach George –he’s a good coach and a good person, and I’m grateful to him,” Farias said.
“As for this match, it’s our final chance to avoid the bottom two places. We must go for the win.
“Coach Winston has only had three days to work with us, but we’re already feeling positive about the sessions and confident about the future, starting with three points in Friday’s derby.”
On the other hand, Mosta has a clear goal in their mind for today’s game, beat Naxxar to assure themselves of avoiding the relegation places.
Mario Muscat, the Mosta Technical Director, has warned his players on the dangers of today’s match against Naxxar.
“A win will ensure we will avoid the bottom two places, but we know it won’t be easy,” Muscat said.
“Naxxar are highly motivated following the appointment of their new coach. We’ve spoken to our players and reminded them that we’re facing a side full of determination, as is always the case when there’s a change in coaching staff.
“For Naxxar, this is a crucial opportunity to stay out of the bottom two, so we must be fully prepared, both physically and mentally, to get a positive result.
“It would be a mistake to think that a draw is enough.
“The players have been pushing their limits to stay disciplined and focused, with our clear target being all three points.”
Match standards
Muscat admitted that Mosta have failed to match the standards of last season but is encourage by the young talent in the squad.
“Last season, my team beat the champions, Ħamrun Spartans, three times,” Muscat said.
“This year, however, all teams have improved and invested heavily, especially the bigger sides chasing the title.
“We lost a few quality and experienced players from last season – like Clayton Failla, Larsson Coulibaly, and Prince Afriyie – but we’re integrating several promising youngsters such as Aidan Agius and Ryan Debono, among others.”
On his part, Mosta captain Zachary Brincat said that Mosta’s only goal today is to beat Naxxar Lions.
“It’s an honour to play for a club like Mosta, who have always shown faith in my potential, and I’m very grateful for that,” Brincat said.
“We believe we can secure all three points on Friday. We’ve worked hard throughout the week and know that Naxxar will be giving everything in what is a decisive game for them to avoid the bottom two.
“We’re determined to deliver the same performance and result as when we met earlier in the league phase, a match we won 3-0.”
