Malta and Sheffield United FC host press trip from Malta

Between the 16th and 17th of September 7 Maltese journalists travelled to Sheffield to watch Sheffield United FC play Coventry at Bramall lane on the 16th.

This trip was organised to allow the Maltese press to see with their own eyes the value of the coverage garnered by the MTA’s sponsorship of this football club, one of England’s oldest. This sponsorship is the first of its kind and has attracted much attention form both the local and UK press.

The journalists were treated to a champagne reception, tour of the stadium and facilities, followed by a sumptuous three-course meal prior to the match. This was watched from the luxury of the director’s box. The tour of the stadium served to highlight how seriously Sheffield United FC is taking this sponsorship, with Malta popping up along every corridor, hall and dressing room. The visitMALTA.com log is displayed around the actual football arena and is easily visible. Sheffield United merchandise is all branded with the visitMALTA.com logo are selling well.

The eventful match which saw 10 man Sheffield United Draw against Coventry was particularly interesting as Michael Mifsud was playing for Coventry and was the cause for the send off of Suri and the resulting penalty was followed by a crowd of 24,000 at least.

The following morning the journalists were taken to visit the Club’s Academy, which is considered as one of the best in England ranking 5th out of 43. The luxury of this academy is in four Astroturf pitches and four grass pitches, fully equipped gym and a myriad of other comforts and facilities. The visitMALTA.com logo is also highly visible here as well.

Apart from all the positive PR for Malta, Sheffield United FC are also highly committed to supporting Maltese football if given the opportunity, certainly good news for any aspiring young footballer.