FIRA-AER European Nations Cup Division 2B
Malta vs Latvia (17/11/2007)

The Malta National Rugby team, which is supported by their major sponsor Cisk Lager, is ready to ensure an exciting match against Latvia on Saturday at Hibernians Ground, Corradino.

This was announced by Juan Borg Manduca, President of the Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU), during a press conference held at Hibernians Ground, Corradino.

Mr Borg Manduca said: “The National Team underwent a week-long intensive training camp in the UK preparing for the matches against two strong international teams – Croatia (played last Saturday in Makarska) and Latvia. Without the vital support of our sponsors, namely Cisk Lager, who have been instrumental in the progress and achievements of rugby in Malta, as well as the international coaches, team managers, volunteers and supporters we would not have been able to reach the present position.”

“The support of the fans on Saturday will encourage our squad to fight its way through the tough game. We therefore urge our supporters to come and give their full roaring support at the Hibs Ground,” Sean Doublesin, National Team Manager.

This is the second leg of the Fira-AER European Nations Cup for Division 2B.  Last year Malta played Latvia (away), Croatia (home), Andorra (home) and Poland (away). During this second leg, Malta played Croatia (away) last Saturday and in May 2008 the National Team will play a home game against Andorra and away against Poland.   

In the IRB World rankings, Malta is now in 53rd position while Poland is 35th, Croatia 47th, Latvia 41st and Andorra 62nd.

This match promises another sporting and entertainment spectacle for the many patriotic rugby supporters and their families. Doors will open at 12.30pm and the match kicks off at 2.00pm at the Hibs Ground. The event will be hosted by Colin Fitz and Jay from XFM’s Jay and the Crew. 

The event is supported by the official beer of the MRFU, Cisk Lager and The Alley Rock Bar, XFM 100.2, PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Air Malta, Vodafone Malta Ltd, GasanMamo Insurance Ltd, and OnVol.

Tickets at Lm3.50 for adults and Lm1 for children U12 will be available from one of the following outlets: Exotique, Bookends, Agenda Bookshop, Vodafone Retail Outlets, Newskiosk, The Alley Rock Bar, Zmerc Pub and Rookies Sports Bar or from www.maltaticket.com.