The Malta rugby team can lay down a marker in the FIRA-AER Division 2A when they host surprise package Switzerland at the Hibs Stadium this afternoon (kick-off 2pm).

Malta and Switzerland are level in second place with five points, just three adrift of pace-setters the Netherlands.

The winner of today’s match will go top of the five-team section, which also comprises Croatia and bottom-placed Lithuania, albeit with a game more.

Switzerland have been the revelation of the group so far. After an impressive 29-20 win over Croatia, the Swiss held their own against the Netherlands before going down 24-7.

Malta coach Damien Neill is not underestimating Switzerland.

“This is a very delicate match for us,” Neill said.

“Switzerland are a very tough side and we need to be at the top of our game to win the match.

“They boast a number of players who play professional rugby in France and also have a very good kicker in the team, therefore we cannot afford to concede cheap penalties.”

Switzerland bring back special memories for Neill as the Welshman made his first appearance as Malta coach against the Swiss way back in 2004. A few days after taking over from former coach Graham Richards, Neill led Malta to an impressive 17-8 win in Avusy.

Since then, Neill has improved the fortunes of our national team who, today, are not only challenging for promotion to Division 1B but have also reached their highest-ever position, 39, in the IRB rankings.

“In the last nine years, we have put in a lot of work to raise the level of the game and no doubt things have improved significantly,” Neill said.

“Much of the credit for this improvement must be given to the players who have contributed to the national team. They have worked tirelessly to improve and their commitment has been decisive for the growth of the game here.”

The Malta coach is hopeful that the local fans will again fill the Hibs Stadium to support his players today.

“The fans are an integral part of our success and I have no doubt that, against Switzerland, they will again be behind us.

“Their support is crucial and hopefully we can give them something to cheer about come Saturday evening.”

Current standings: Netherlands (2-0-0) 8; Malta (1-0-1) 5; Switzerland (1-0-1) 5; Croatia (1-0-1) 4; Lithuania (0-0-2) 0.

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