Fruitless Thursday after Happy Monday

Last updated : 16 July 2009 By C. Morris

After winning their two pre-season games on Monday the Owls were not as impressive on Thursday evening as they suffered two narrow losses.

Their first outing of the evening saw them come up against Birkirkara and they lost out on penalties having initially been held to a goalless draw in the 45-minute encounter

The Owls fielded a strong back four featuring Simek and Spurr in the full-back positions with Wood and Hinds in partnership at centre-back. On-trial Ryan France was given another opportunity to shine as was Maltese front-man Etienne Barbara who partnered Akpo Sodje in attack who himself was making his first appearance of the tour.

Chances were few and far between in the short match and Richard Wood proved to be the villain for the Owls as his spot kick was saved to hand victory to the side that finished third in the Maltese Premier League last season.

The Owls second game of the night saw them go down to a 1-0 defeat to Sliema Wanderers, courtesy of a first minute goal from Triganza.
Wednesday made seven changes to the side that had earlier lost out on penalties with Marcus Tudgay partnering Leon Clarke in attack but the fresh line up could not find an equaliser as they were given probably their sternest work out of the tour by a team that finished in mid-table in Malta last season.

Despite the results the short pre-season camp in Malta appears to have been a great success, especially for the supporters that have made the journey and have mingled with the Owls squad out there.

Wednesday continue their preparations for the forthcoming season with a trip to Hartlepool next Tuesday.