Various players from the BOV Premier League, some of whom also representing the country in the national team, have lodged complaints with the Malta Football Players Association (MFPA) regarding the condition of the National Stadium pitch and the balls being used.

“After top local players had aired their views on the quality of the balls and the surface at the National Stadium on social media, other players came forward and expressed their disappointment,” the MFPA said in a statement.

“This situation needs to be addressed so that the quality of the game is improved.”

It seems that the most common complaints are that the balls being used for the Premier League matches are of an inferior quality compared to balls made available for international matches.

Also, very often the balls are over- or under-inflated.

“Very rarely Premier League matches are played with new balls, something that is common practice in most leagues elsewhere,” the MFPA contended.

“In fact, it seems that here in Malta the same balls are being used both on natural grass and synthetic turf pitches.”

The MFPA added that the National Stadium pitch condition is not optimal.

“Even if it should be taken into consideration the fact that the pitch is definitely over used and less games should be played, the pitch is always dry on match days,” the players’ union said.

“When the surface is dry it affects the speed and tempo of the game. Ideally, the pitch should be watered before the game, just enough to make it damp under the surface. That way the ball glides smoothly over the turf.”

Shorter grass

Another issue raised by the players with the union is that the turf should be shorter.

“There could be various reasons why the grass is not mowed including less watering and fertiliser needs and as tall grass grows slower it needs less frequent cutting,” the MFPA said.

“However, it badly affects the movement of the ball and also the running and dribbling techniques of the players and, more importantly, it makes the pace slower.

“The turf should be kept shorter and mowed to an ideal height before each match day. This is common practice ahead of national team home matches, but it never happens prior to Premier League games.”

The MFPA is urging the football authorities to listen to the players’ complaints and address the issue to improve the quality of the game.