The Malta rugby national team will be eager to make sure of their Division 2A status for another campaign when they face group leaders The Netherlands at the Hibs Stadium, this afternoon (kick-off: 14.00).
Back-to-back victories over Lithuania (13-10) and Croatia (37-18) in autumn put Malta in a strong position to avoid a relegation play-off as the side are currently third in the five-team division, seven points clear of Croatia and nine ahead of Lithuania with two match-days still to go.
With vital points still up for grabs, Malta, ranked 43rd in the latest IRB list, need to pick at least another bonus point to seal their place in the division ahead of a tough trip to Switzerland the following weekend.
“We are going into this match with a lot of determination and commitment,” coach Damien Neill told The Times of Malta.
“The Dutch are a formidable side but we have developed into a very solid outfit and with a great group of players who work hard on the training pitch and have a great work ethic.
“We have also introduced a couple of new faces who, I must say, fitted nicely in the team. For this match we are boosted by the return of a few regulars.
“It’s a massive test for us but one that we are relishing to play as there are some crucial points at stake.”
Neill has given a first cap to Welsh-based duo Marvin Cordle and Jack Basher and is boosted by the return of the influential Holloway duo, Thomas and Rob. Both missed the November qualifiers due to injury.
Rhodri Apsee, who in the past represented Wales Under-20, is also available for selection.
The Netherlands, currently leading the way on 25 points, five ahead of Switzerland, need a win from their remaining two matches to make sure of promotion to Division 1B.
Coach Alex Chang will rely on a squad mostly composed of players from three Dutch clubs – Haagsche, RC Hilversum and The Dukes. That means The Netherlands will have little problems of cohesion this afternoon.
The Dutch have already given a glimpse of their strength when in the corresponding first-round fixture they eased to a comfortable 48-10 victory over Malta, in Amsterdam, last year.
“Maltese rugby has improved steadily over the last few years as we try and continue to punch above our weight at this level, also thanks to the great support of our loyal fans,” Neill said.
“Their backing could again be a determining factor against the Dutch at the Hibs Stadium.
“The boys will be up against the best team in the group and if the people on the stands can create another electrifying atmosphere, I’m sure the players will strive to reach a higher level of performance.
“Hopefully, that will help us complete our home fixtures in the group on a positive note.”
Playing today
Malta vs Netherlands - 14.00
Remaining fixtures
April 12: Netherlands vs Croatia; Switzerland vs Malta.
April 19: Croatia vs Lithuania.
April 26: Lithuania vs Switzerland.
Standings
The Netherlands (5-1-0) 25; Swit-zerland (4-1-1) 20; Malta (3-0-3) 14; Croatia (1-0-5) 7; Lithuania (1-0-5) 5.