International
2013-02-06 - Malta vs Northern Ireland
A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser
Match Preview :
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill will go for his first win as his side takes on Malta at the Ta'qali National Stadium. O'Neill is searching for his first win after eight tries since taking charge of the team, with the side having not won a game since a 4-0 victory over the Faroe Islands in August 2011.
Nevertheless, Malta have proven to be a good omen for Northern Ireland, who have managed five wins and a draw from their six previous visits, and in 1989 it provided a notable first for O'Neill as he scored his first international goal for Northern Ireland. Their winless run has included draws from four of his seven games, including an unlikely point in Portugal.
However, the clash will most likely provide a much-needed opportunity to try out youth for next month's qualifier against Russia. Considering also that striker Kyle Lafferty and defender Chris Baird is suspended for the game along with the withdrawal of several players through injury.
And the former Shamrock Rovers boss admits everybody is keen to finally get a win here stating: "It doesn't keep me awake at night, but the players want that (victory) as well. The players know we have to get back to winning games."
Meanwhile, Malta have won four of their last seven games which is their best run since 2001-02. Head Coach Pietro Chedin wants his side to produce a good performance even though it is a friendly. He was quick to point out that a number of their players play in England's Premier League and the Championship and that shows they are a strong side.
Team News :
Northern Ireland Team News :
Goalkeepers Roy Carroll (back) and Trevor Carson (broken finger), defensive duo Ryan McGivern (hamstring) and Ryan McLaughlin (calf), midfielder Oliver Norwood (foot) and striker Jamie Ward (hamstring) have all pulled out of the squad because of concerns over their fitness.
A number of players could make their debuts, with Billy McKay of Inverness probably the most likely as the top scorer in the Scottish Premier League this season. Tranmere's Adam McGurk, Josh Magennis of Aberdeen and Walsall's Will Grigg are also likely to be given a start.
Malta Team News :
Malta will be without midfielder Roderick Briffa and defender Jonathan Caruana, who are both carrying knocks. Head coach Pietro Chedin is set to make two changes from the side that completed a 1-0 win over Lichtenstein in November. Birkirkara's Paul Fenech set to replace Briffa for this clash.
Predictions :
Go for Northern Ireland to get the win here.
The Pick :
Malta 1-2 Northern Ireland
BEST BETTING TIP :
Take Northern Ireland to win. [Main Bet]
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Go for Northern Ireland and give the 1/4 ball here.
