The Under 14 squad from the renowned Buzu Soccer School were recently the guests of Manchester United during a one-week tourney in northern England.
The players were under the charge of experienced coaches and former Malta internationals Ray Farrugia and John Buttigieg. In all, four matches were played against English opponents with the Maltese side going down narrowly on three occasions besides one drawn result.
They lost to Manchester United 2-0, Bolton Wanderers 2-1 and Bury U-16 1-0.
The Buzu Soccer School lads, however, held their Bury counterparts to a 2-2 draw in a fast-moving game.
The contingent includ-ed 17 players. They all played a part during the four matches which were held at Carrington, Bolton and Bury. The main intention of the coaches was to give ample time for their youngsters to gain experience apart from testing their skills against overseas opposition.
The Buzu Soccer School was assisted by former Manchester United Supporters Club (Malta) president John Buttigieg and Neville Neville, father of Manchester United and England players Gary and Phil.
They both helped to co-ordinate the Maltese group's visit in England.
Notwithstanding the hectic schedule, they still had time to tour Manchester United's first class training facilities at Carrington, the Old Trafford stadium and other interesting places related with the mythical Lancashire club.
They also attended United's first Premier League home match of the season against Norwich City and the early round League Cup tie between Bury and Burnley at Gigg Lane.
During their visit, Farrugia and Buttigieg held talks with Manchester United staff.
It is now likely that next year other teams from the Buzu Soccer School will be invited to take part in Manchester United international tournaments for youth teams. These matches will be played at Carrington.
Meanwhile, the new Buzu Soccer School season got underway two weeks ago at St Martin's College, Swatar. Most of the categories are full to the limit with a few vacancies remaining in some younger age-groups. One may obtain more details by phoning 9983-7001 or 9949-1594.