Malta lost to Gibraltar by the odd goal in seven in a lively international futsal friendly at the Tercentenary Hall on Thursday evening.

This was the first of two friendly matches between the two UEFA minnows with the next warm-up scheduled for tonight at the same venue.

On Thursday, Gibraltar opened well and scored the opening goal through Andrew Lopez but Jovica Milijic levelled matters shortly after.

The home team were effective from counter-attacks and mid-way through the first half Lopez scored a gem of a goal to put Gibraltar 2-1 up.

Gibraltar went close to adding more goals to their tally but found Bjorn Vassallo in their way, the keeper coming to the side’s rescue on more than one occasion.

Then, just before half-time, Vassallo was beaten by Ian Rodriguez’s effort after Dylan Musu was unable to clear off the line.

Malta coach Kevin Mifsud urged his players to lift their game after the break and they emerged a more determined lot from the tunnel, immediately pulling one goal back through Cedric Sciberras.

With the Reds pushing forward in numbers in search of an equaliser, it was Gibraltar who struck again following a Duane Robba goal after another quick raid from the home side.

At this point, Mifsud switched to the flying keeper option, again forcing the Gibraltar players to defend in numbers.

Malta mounted the pressure and a thrilling finale ensued after Dylan Musu reduced the deficit with a great shot. Milijic was then denied by the upright.

In the end, Malta’s efforts proved futile as the home team resisted bravely to secure the win.