Malta round-up: Aquilina extends Sliema stay

Sliema Wanderers FC coach Edward Aquilina has agreed terms to stay with the Maltese champions for another season.

One-year extension
Club president Robert Arrigo announced that Aquilina, along with his assistant Hugh Caruana, have agreed to extend their stay at the club until the end of next season. Aquilina guided Sliema to their first domestic title in seven years and a place  in the UEFA Champions League, although the last two major trophies of the season, the FA Trophy and Super Cup, slipped away with defeats against Birkirkara FC.

Oba out in the cold
Birkirara have terminated midfield player Rufin Oba's contract with immediate effect. The Congolese player had signed a three-year contract with the club midway through last season but decided to terminate his agreement, via an option to end his contract in May of each year.

Kelly accepts role
Marsaxlokk FC have announced that Robert Kelly will be their new coach for next season. Joseph John Aquilina's contract was recently terminated, despite guiding the club to sixth place in the championship pool in their first season in the top flight. Aquilina took over the reigns at Marsaxlokk in October, replacing Albert Vella.

'Ambitious club'
The vastly experienced Kelly said of his appointment: "I have thought hard about a possible return to coaching in the Premier League. I have now decided to come back, and Marsaxlokk will be the new side I will be guiding. I have accepted Marsaxlokk's offer because they are a very ambitious club, wanting to go places.  I am sure we can both do well".

August start
The Maltese Premier League season will re-commence on 22 August. The annual "Lowenbrau Cup" will take place on the 4, 6 and 8 August. The event will feature the three clubs participating in the UEFA club competitions next season; champions Sliema Wanderers, FA Trophy winners Birkirkara FC and third placed Valletta FC.