The Malta waterpolo U-18 women’s national team opened their commitments in the European Championship in style when they beat Ireland 14-11 at the National Pool on Sunday.
The team guided by Aurelien Cousin showed remarkable resilience to fend off Ireland’s late fightback and secure their first win of the competition.
Eyla Schembri was Malta’s leading scorer when netting five goals, while Ella Miceli also stood out when finding the net four times.
The match was very tight, with the opening session seeing both teams fighting to take control, with the Maltese girls ending 4-3 ahead. Malta’s scorers in this session were Chloe Amato and Eyla Schembri, who netted a brace each.
In the second session, the Maltese girls looked to have taken control of the match as they managed to score three times through Nevise Agius, Ella Miceli, and Elisa Amato to take a 7-5 lead when ends were changed.
But the Irish had other plans as they stepped up their game in the third session and at one point managed to level the match at eight-all.
However, late goals from Miceli, twice, and Schembri ensured they started the final session 10-8 in front.
In the final quarter, the Maltese girls did well to administer their advantage as they found the net four times through a brace from Schembri, as well as goals from Miceli and Amato to seal a vital win.
This evening, Malta take on Serbia in their second Group C match.