After the success of the first edition, the Lotto Goalkeeper Battle will be held again this year.
The competition, organised by Hibs no. 1 Mario Muscat and former goalkeeper Simon Grech, will be staged at the Infetti training grounds in Birkirkara.
Last year, San Ġwann hosted the event but, in a drive to enhance promotion, the organi-sers will be changing venue every year. The ‘Battle’ will be held on June 2-3 as by that time, the MFA competitions will have come to an end.
“Last year, the event clashed with MFA fixtures, resulting in the loss of about 50 participants,” Muscat said.
“This time around, we have chosen a date that will give the opportunity to all interested participants to take part in this challenge.”
The format is very similar to that used overseas as all aspects of goalkeeping – fielding the ball, kicking, throwing and reflexes – are tackled.
There will again be six age-groups, from Under-9 to Under-19.
Two more classes are being added to this year’s event – women and seniors with Muscat himself set to feature in the latter category.
The Lotto Goalkeeper Battle consists of 1 vs 1 challenges where the goalkeepers try to beat each other by kicking or throwing the ball at the opposite posts.
The ‘keeper with most goals in the four-minute match-up wins the session. One minute of extra-time is given if the match ends in a draw.
The first phase will be on a league format with every category having a maximum of 32 players, divided into eight groups of four. The winner and runner-up in each group will then contest the knock-out stages the following day.
The size of the ball, pitch and goal-posts will vary according to the different age-groups.
All sessions will be directed by MFA referees.
Last year’s winner in the eldest age-group was Birkirkara’s Karl Magri who made his league debut on Monday in the 5-0 drubbing of Balzan Youths.
Participants will be given a full kit and mementoes. Trophies will be awarded to the first three players in each category.
During the competition, the road near Infetti will be closed as there will be activities going on. An ambulance and nurses will also be on site.
“This has to be an event for everyone to enjoy so we are planning to make this a family activity,” Grech said.
Application forms can be collected from all nurseries around Malta, Lotto outlets and Di Milano Sports Shops. Closing date for application is May 20.
Muscat thanked Michael Fenech Adami, Mayor of Birkirkara, and Claudio Martinelli, managing director of Lotto, for their support.