On Sunday, at the Snooker Academy in Hamrun, Malta concluded its campaign in the International Challenge Cup with a stunning 21-6 victory over France. This strong performance secured Malta an impressive second-place finish in this year’s edition of the tournament.
Outstanding Performances Across Categories
Out of nine players, six registered clean sweeps with 3-0 victories, while all four Maltese players in the Masters category emerged victorious. In the Men’s division, Joseph Casha narrowly lost 2-1 to France’s Youssef Lahlou in an unlucky final frame. With only four balls remaining, Lahlou’s precise potting of the brown ball gave him the edge needed to claim the game.
In other Men’s matches, Brian Cini, Alex Borg, and his son Isaac Borg each secured emphatic 3-0 wins, defeating their opponents Jerome Chatet, Enzo Giacomarra, and Yann Lanvin, respectively.
The Masters category showcased Malta’s dominance, with Philip Ciantar, Arthur Cachia, and Frans Mintoff all delivering 3-0 victories against their French counterparts, Marc Chouillier, Emos Pecqueux, and Christophe Rives-Lange. Additionally, David Zammit overcame Kevin Gilquin in a closely contested match, winning 2-1.
In the Juniors category, Xavier Rizzo faced a challenging opponent in France’s Malo Dory Geffroy and lost 3-0.
Veteran Recognition and Improved Results
Malta not only secured second place, improving on last year’s result, but also celebrated individual accolades. Veteran Maltese player Arthur Cachia was named Player of the Tournament in the Masters category. This is a testament to his skill and consistency throughout the competition.
Final Standings
- Republic of Ireland – 77 points
- Malta – 64 points
- Northern Ireland – 54 points
- Scotland – 52 points
- France – 25 points
Closing Ceremony
The tournament concluded with a closing ceremony where the European Billiards & Snooker Association (EBSA) Chairman, Maxime Cassis, presented the trophy to the winning team captain, Robert Murphy of the Republic of Ireland. Cassis also announced that next year’s edition of the International Challenge Cup will be hosted in France.
This year’s edition not only highlighted Malta’s rising talent but also strengthened its position among Europe’s top snooker nations.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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