Former national team player Martin Gregory still has fond memories of the day he found the net in Malta’s World Cup qualifier against Italy at Ta’ Qali in December 1992.

Despite losing 1-2 to mighty Italy, Mr Gregory ~is convinced it was one of Malta’s finest performances on the inter-national field. The game saw Franco Baresi red-carded and Malta missing a penalty.

The joy was, however, only short-lived as in the away game Italy trounced Malta 6-1.

“I am remembered mostly for that goal, which was my only one with the national team,” he said yesterday.

Despite the local hype surrounding the match, the Melita FC coach may not manage to watch the entire game tonight due to training.

“But my thoughts will be with the coach and players. The players know it is going to be a difficult game but I’m sure they’ll give a very good showing.”

Gregory played with the national team during Pietro Ghedin’s first stint as national team coach between 1993 and 1995.

“I know he is very pleased with this group of players, who should not be afraid of the Italian side. They must go into the stadium with their heads held high.”

Malta’s results against Italy:
May 15, 1958: Friendly, U-23 1-1
June 18, 1961: Friendly, Malta v Italy ‘C’, 0-3
December 5, 1984: Friendly, Malta v Italy, U-21, 1-2
December 6, 1986: European Championship, Malta v Italy, 0-2
January 24, 1987: European Championship, Italy v Malta, 5-0
December 19, 1992: World Cup, Malta v Italy, 1-2
March 24, 1993: World Cup, Italy v Malta, 6-1

(Source: maltafootball.com)