Birkirkara approach tomorrow’s Europa League second qualifying tie against West Ham United with a healthy dose of optimism following a gutsy showing last week at Upton Park, goalkeeper Justin Haber said.
Last week, Haber produced a man-of-the-match performance with a string of fine saves that frustrated the more-quoted London side for long spells.
In the end West Ham needed a very late goal from defender James Tomkins to break the Stripes’ resistance and eke out a 1-0 win.
Haber admitted that conceding defeat at that stage of the match was a hard blow to fathom but added that their gallant match has heightened their chances of springing a surprise in tomorrow’s return leg at the National Stadium.
“When we headed to the half-time interval with the result still 0-0 we realised that although West Ham were a stronger team, we could still avoid defeat,” Haber said.
“So much so that in the second half we played with more confidence... it was a shame to concede a goal that way. West Ham are still favourites but there is a strong feeling among the players that if we play to our strengths we can reach the next round.”
Speedy recovery
Haber’s participation in the first leg was a surprise as the Malta international was rated a major doubt after sustaining a thigh injury in the previous round against FC Ulisses, of Armenia.
“Really, few believed I could recover in time for West Ham,” Haber conceded.
“In fact, a few days before the trip to London I was still on crutches. However, credit goes to our physio Aaron Saliba.
“He put me through an intensive recovery programme and his treatment was spot on.
“Having spent a few years playing in England with Sheffield United I had added motivation to be involved in the match at Upton Park as I wanted to show that I was still a valid goalkeeper.
“But it was not just me. The team showed great commitment and the close result was down to the contribution of each and every one in the squad.”
Tomorrow’s match is expected to attract a bumper crowd to the stadium.
Haber is banking on the Birkirkara fans to have a major say in carrying the team to a memorable result.
“We are confident but not arrogant about our chances,” he said.
“This time we will be playing at home and we will have the backing of the crowd at the stadium... that will be an added source of inspiration.
“Lately, I’ve spoken with a lot of our fans and even with some of other Maltese clubs and they’ve all given me a lot of encouragement.
“We’re all looking forward to what promises to be a memorable match. Hopefully, in the end we can provide the fans with something to cheer about.”