The men’s U-20 national team finished in fifth place at a European Zone IHF Trophy tournament, held recently in Georgia.

The competition, played under the auspices of the International Handball Federation (IHF), was held in the city of Kutaisi. Besides the host country and Malta, the other five teams taking part were Moldova, Armenia, Albania, Kosovo and Great Britain.

The format included a preliminary round with teams divided in two groups.

Kosovo topped Group B on goal difference after they drew with Moldova but beat Malta with a higher goal margin. Georgia won Group A ahead of Great Britain.

In the semi-finals, Moldova eliminated Georgia 33-24 as Kosovo stunned the British boys 32-22.

Moldova then edged Kosovo 30-28 to win the tournament as Georgia got their consolation in winning the bronze medal by having the better of Great Britain in the match for third place.

In the play-off for fifth place, Malta produced a fine display to beat Armenia 27-19.

With coach Joe Tanti leading the side, Malta took matters in hand and dominated from the early stages. Armenia tried to fight their way back into the game but their efforts were thwarted by keeper Reece Galea who distinguished himself with a string of fine saves.

Liam Harrison was Malta’s top scorer in the play-off, hitting the target no fewer than 11 times.

Final rankings

1. Moldova, 2. Kosovo, 3. Georgia, 4. Great Britain, 5. Malta, 6. Armenia, 7. Albania.

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