Recap

In the opening game of the FIBA European Small Countries Games in Andorra, Malta, led by new coach Duncan Fenech, faced Gibraltar in a highly anticipated matchup with the latter taking an 89-81 victory.

Malta’s starting lineup featured David Bugeja, Alec Felice Pace, Joshua Tomasi, Nathan Xuereb, and Kurt Cassar, while Gibraltar countered with Lucas Perez, Jamie McGrail, Callum Jon Vinales, Mohamed El Yettefti, and Thomas Yome.

Michael Sjoberg led the Malta scoring with 19 points on his return to the national team. Cassar and Tomasi rounded off the double-digit scoring for Fenech’s clan.

Ortega was the game’s top scorer with 27 points on the day with Jamie McGrail following after scoring 23 points. Thomas Yome and Sam Buxton were the other double-digit scorers for Gibraltar with 17 and 10 points respectively.

Malta asserted dominance in the first quarter, showcasing strong offensive execution and resilient defence. Xuereb set the tone early with a three-pointer, while Felice Pace converted turnovers into points with precise free throws. Sjoberg’s layup further extended Malta’s lead. Despite efforts from Gibraltar’s Perez and Ortega, Malta’s cohesive play and accurate shooting established a commanding 26-11 lead by the end of the quarter.

The second quarter saw a spirited battle, with Malta maintaining a narrow 43-42 lead at halftime. Sjoberg and Cassar played pivotal roles early on, pushing Malta’s advantage to 35-17. Gibraltar mounted a comeback with strong contributions from McGrail and Ortega, narrowing the deficit. Crucial three-pointers from Sjoberg kept Malta ahead, but Gibraltar’s consistent free-throw shooting, including from Yome, kept the game competitive. Another key three-pointer from Sjoberg, assisted by Kurt Xuereb, ensured Malta entered halftime with a slim lead, highlighting the teams’ strategic adjustments and competitive intensity.

The two sides returned for the change of ends and the third quarter was tightly contested, with Gibraltar edging ahead 61-60. McGrail and Buxton made significant plays for Gibraltar, while Yome and Ortega’s defensive efforts limited Malta’s offensive opportunities. Sjoberg continued to shine with critical three-pointers for Malta, keeping the score close. Both teams struggled with missed opportunities, but Gibraltar capitalised on free throws to maintain their narrow lead. Cassar and Xuereb contributed crucial rebounds and assists for Malta, setting up an exciting final period with Gibraltar holding a slight advantage.

In the final quarter, Gibraltar managed to maintain their lead, ultimately securing an 89-81 victory over Malta. Gibraltar’s Ortega played a decisive role down the stretch, converting crucial free throws to extend their lead. Felice Pace’s efforts, including key steals and a pivotal 3-pointer assisted by Matthew Scerri, kept Malta within striking distance. However, Gibraltar’s strong defensive presence, led by El Yettefti and Yome, disrupted Malta’s offensive flow with timely steals and rebounds. Despite a late surge from Cassar with clutch three-pointers, Gibraltar maintained composure to close out the game. The match showcased Gibraltar’s resilience and strategic execution under pressure, with Ortega’s free throws sealing their victory in the final moments.