Dockers' memorable debut at Corradino

The dockyard has played its part in the development of football in Malta. The Dockyard School was one of the first institutions to set up a football team and records show that the team was already playing matches against Services sides as far back as the 1890s.

In the period before and immediately after the First World War, many British tradesmen came to Malta to work at the Admiralty Yard. Many were single and, having plenty free time at their disposal, they turned to football.

The Dockyard Apprentices FT, the Dockyard Athletics and the Dockyard Clerical Staff FT were but three of a number of teams born at the Dockyard.

Throughout the years, other teams were formed at the yard. The majority of them, however, survived for only a short period. Founded in 1957, the Dockyard FC survived in one form or another well into the 1980s.

Founded and bred by Joe H. Griffiths, the team made its debut on April 26, 1957 in what was described by the Times of Malta as a 'Grand Benefit Football Match at Corradino'. The game between Dockyard FC and MFA Amateur XI in aid of local charities was turned into a grand occasion.

With both teams replete with players of First Division experience, the match was bound to attract a lot of attention.

For once the gates of the Admiralty Dockyard were thrown open to civilians and a huge crowd wended its way to Corradino on that Friday afternoon.

The crowd was not disappointed by the fare offered. The football was of the highest standard and the Maltese enjoyed every minute of it.

MFA Amateurs were at the time preparing for their commitments in the tourney against Queen's Park, of Scotland. The amateurs played some superb football but the Dockyard XI seemed to have more understanding and combination in their play.

The Dockers fought hard for every ball and inspired by a fine display from goalkeeper Galea, of Zejtun Corinthians, they ran out worthy winners 2-0.

In the first half, the Amateurs held the upperhand. They attacked more and Galea was conspicuous with superb saves on a couple of piledrivers.

Play, however, soon swung to the other side. A good pass by Lolly Borg found Pawlu Said in an ideal position but the Rabat centre-forward saw his shot turned smartly away for a corner by Freddie Mizzi.

In the second period, Said changed positions with Abela. This move seemed to perform miracles and with 'Steak' Abela leading the line and the more agile Said raiding the wing, the attack began to function better.

Double lead

After only five minutes, the Dockyard team were awarded a penalty after Falzon handled inside the area. Said took the kick and scored. The Amateurs tried hard to get back into the game. The Dockers, however, were faster and fitter.

In the 18th minute, Maurice Walsh took a corner. Abela leapt for the ball and nodded the leather into the net past Mizzi.

The Dockyard supporters, glad to have a half-day off to support their team, were now yelling their heads off.

An injury to Cuschieri forced the home side to carry on with ten men for the rest of the game. However, the Amateurs failed to profit from such an advantage and a few minutes later the game ended with the Dockers on top.

After the game, Rear Admiral and Mrs J. Lee Barber presented a handsome cup to the winners and a set of medals to the players of both teams.

For the record

April 26, 1957 - Corradino Football Ground

Dockyard FC vs MFA Amateurs 2-0

Dockyard: Galea (Zejtun), Glynn (Marsa), Scerri (St George's), Calleja (Sliema), Cuschieri (Sliema), Agius (Rabat), Abela (Marsa), Walsh (Sliema), Said (Rabat), Borg (Floriana), Sultana (Vittoriosa).

MFA Amateurs: Mizzi (Melita), Falzon (Hamrun), Gollcher (Sliema), Borg (Hamrun), Darmanin (Vittoriosa), Zammit (Valletta), Alamango (Floriana), Schembri (Sliema), Cauchi (Floriana), Scicluna (St George's), Nappa (Balzan Y).

Scorers: Said (pen.), Abela.

Referee: G. Degiorgio.