Malta look to topple Belgium and seal 1A promotion

The rugby national team is just 80 minutes away from promotion to Europe's Division 1A as they take on Belgium in this afternoon's remaining 2007 World Cup qualifier in Brussels (kick-off: 4 p.m.).

The impressive 26-15 win over Croatia at the Hibs Ground last weekend lifted Malta to the top of Pool B with seven points from three matches, one point ahead of Belgium and Germany who have played a game less.

Victory at the King Badouin Stadium today will guarantee the national team promotion to the continent's highest division. However, Malta, now 49th in the IRB rankings, face a tough task against a Belgium side ranked no.32. Added to that, Belgium are still undefeated in the group having beaten Croatia 26-20 and Serbia 36-15.

Coach Damien Neill said his players will have to give their 100 per cent and more to complete their qualifying campaign on a positive note.

"The Belgium match will be another huge test for us," Neill said.

"We know they are a very organised side, full of quality players who play top class rugby week in week out in different parts of Europe.

"I watched Belgium in action on video and I was particularly impressed by their kicker Simon Marote... he is very sharp. We have to avoid conceding unnecessary penalties... Marote will kill us for sure."

Matthew Mirabelli, of Stompers, is unavailable. His place in the squad was filled by England-based James Finalson.

Oliver Sacco is also out due to work commitments but no other replacement was called. Sacco's absence will force Neill to move Lee Culane on the wing and give a recall to full-back Joe Sultana.

Neill said he was confident after Saturday's performance against Croatia.

"That match was a clear indication of how much this team has improved in the last 12 months," Neill said.

"There's a more solid look about us now and the inclusion of Eddie Zarb in the pack has indeed made us look stronger. Besides, the speed of Paul Marzella, Rohan Spiteri and Guy Kennedy have added more options in attack.

"There's no other way now but to look forward and build on what the MRFU has achieved so far. In Belgium, we have to show how far this the team has progressed and end our qualifying campaign on a high."

Malta: 1. D. Zammit; 2. H. Collins; 3. E. Zarb; 4. L. Watts, 5. R. Bonavia; 6. G. Kennedy; 7. S. Kempster (captain), 8. D. St George; 9. J. Dimond; 10. R. Spiteri; 11. L. Culane; 12. J. Caruana; 13. D. Busuttil. 14. P. Marzella; 15. J. Sultana.

Subs: I. Borda; T. Webb; K. Mason; S. Haycock; D. Gasan; M. Attard; J. Finalson.

Referee: Tim Hayes (Wales).