There was a low-key start to the 2008/09 BOV Premier League last weekend as the ten teams in competition started their long and arduous campaign in sweltering heat that, not surprisingly, helped little for players to produce some fine play and entertainment for those present on the stands.
With most of the teams looking to adapt to the unfavourable conditions, the off-field controversy related to the dress code and attire of media personnel making their way to the pitch via the VIP area at the National Stadium took some extra limelight.
One expects the football authorities at the stadium to clarify the issue before the next round of matches later on this week. Our football can indeed do without such unpleasant situations.
On the field of play, Hibs look to have chalked up the most convincing performance after trouncing Msida St Joseph 5-1. Terrence Scerri, captain on the day, and newcomer Rumen Galabov each scored twice past the Saints.
Birkirkara are the other team on maximum points following a 3-1 win over a spirited Tarxien Rainbows team. The Premier League newcomers only surrendered in stoppage time when Michael Galea found space to hit home the Stripes' 'killer goal'.
Perhaps, the most unexpected result was that of Qormi, the other promoted team in the top flight.
Jesmond Zerafa's newly-assembled side held Marsaxlokk to a one-all draw, the southerners scoring a very late equaliser through Julio Arcorse to deny Qormi a dream start.
Champions Valletta had new Brazilian signing Marcelo Tolomeotti scoring a superb first-half goal against Sliema Wanderers on Monday. Strangely, the Citizens fizzled away and looked a tired lot in the second half. Ivan Woods netted a deserved equaliser for Sliema with a handful of minutes to go.
In the opening match of the season last Friday, Floriana and Ħamrun Spartans figured in a lacklustre scoreless draw.
The only highlights of this match were the two reds cards shown to Owen Bugeja, of Floriana, and Ħamrun's Gaetan Spiteri. Both dismissals came in the opening half.