Schembri shines for jubilant Malta
Friday, October 20, 2006
Article summary
Andre Schembri is the third generation of his family to play for Malta but the first to become a national hero after shooting his side to a historic win nine days ago.
Article body
Striker Andre Schembri is living a childhood dream after becoming a national hero in Malta by scoring both goals in his country's 2-1 UEFA EURO 2008™ success against Hungary.
Man of the moment
Schembri is the man of the moment in his homeland. In addition to earning Malta a first UEFA European Championship qualifying victory since 1982 nine days ago, his four goals in seven matches have helped lift his club, Marsaxlokk FC, to the top of the Premier League. "I had only ever dreamt of playing for Malta - let alone scoring twice against Hungary last week," he told uefa.com.
Ambitious side
"As a young boy, I used to go and watch Malta and was always sorry to see them not getting good results. I am very glad to have helped secure this historic win. As for Marsaxlokk, I am honoured be part of an ambitious side chasing their first Premier League title. Marsaxlokk are focused and geared up to finish the season where we are now - at the top of the Maltese table. I really believe we can win this title this year."
Footballing dynasty
The Schembri family have long left their mark on Maltese football. Andre's grandfather Salvinu, who turns 83 on Saturday, captained the national team in their first official match on 24 February 1957, a 3-2 defeat by Austria at the old Gzira Empire Stadium, and ended his career with three caps and one goal. Andre's father Eric was also a player to be reckoned with. During a spell at Gzira United FC, he claimed the first of five caps in a 1-0 loss to Libya in August 1974, and later played for Sliema Wanderers FC.
Bigger goals
At just 20, Andre has already eclipsed both his father and grandfather, and his famous double - and five caps - are surely a sign of good times to come. Andre hopes that bigger things may lie ahead at club level as well, and believes Marsaxlokk's experienced English coach Brian Talbot can help him achieve his goals. "I think he will be guiding me in finding a good club abroad in the very near future," he said. "That's something I want very much."
