FIBA Div C U16 Men - MALTA's path to the semi-finals
Malta will be facing Andorra in the semi-finals which is to be played today at 16:30 and can be followed via live streaming on www.fsp.sm or play by play on www.fibaeurope.com.
Malta's results on their way to the semis were :
Game 1 - SAN MARINO EDGE MALTA IN THRILLER : 75-74
A three pointer of Julien Gualtieri at the buzzer lifted hosts San Marino over Malta in their opening game of the U16 European Championship Division C. In a game of runs, San Marino opened a small advantage in the first ten minutes before having to watch Malta storm out the gate in the second quarter and taking a 33-46 half-time lead. But the home team clawed their way back into the game and closed the gap at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Both teams traded blows before it was time for Gualtieri to do his magic and bring home the win for San Marino. The guard finished with 35 points to top all scorers, also hauling in 15 rebounds. Aaron Falzon led Malta with a massive double-double of 27 points and 23 rebounds in defeat.
Game 2 - FALZON ROCKS GIBRALTAR : 83-49
Aaron Falzon had a monster game with 36 points and 31 rebounds as Malta routed Gibraltar 83-49 to level their record at 1-1 at the U16 European Championship Men. Falzon dominated inside, making 16 of 27 (59.3%) from the field. Gibraltar, in contrast, suffered some dismal shooting as a team, making only 17 of 60 (28.3%) from the field and 14 of 35 (40%) from the free throw line. Zane Micallef added 14 points and Christopher Cordina had 11.
Game 3 - MALTA KNOCK OFF PRINCIPALITY OF MONACO : 74-45
Malta scored a straightforward win, knocking off the Principality of Monaco 74-45. The final result was never really in doubt as Malta outscored their opponents 27-4 in the opening quarter. Aaron Falzon had another huge game with 25 points and 20 rebounds, while Christopher Cordina added 17 points and 10 boards.
