Gravity

Vuvuzela

The 2010 World Cup in South Africa has hit the world like a storm with millions of people glued to tv sets to watch their star players and favourite national team playing. Malta being no less with the local favourites England and Italy both gaining precious draws in albeit different circumstances. Amidst all this the vuvuzela has grabbed quite a few headlines because of the loud noise it emits and there seems to be a divide on whether they should be banned or not with Fifa taking a stance that they are there to remain. Following are some interesting facts related to the current World Cup.


1. Brasil is the only South American team to win a World Cup in Europe, America and Asia.

2. European teams haven't won a world cup outside Europe.

3. Only Italy - 1934 and 1938 and Brazil - 1958 and 1962 have won two consecutive World Cups in a row.

4. Argentina, Uruguay, Italy, West Germany, England and France won the trophy as hosts. Brazil lost at home in 1950.

5. Two finals were decided in penalties: 1994 and 2006.

6. Three finals were decided in extra-time: 1934, 1966 and 1978.

7. Most appearances by a team: Brazil - all 18 editions.

8. Most wins: Brazil - 5.

9. Most winners-up: Germany - 4.

10. Most final appearances: Brazil and Germany - 7 each.

11. Most winners medals: Pele, Brazil - 3.

12. Most goals scored: Ronaldo, Brazil - 15 (1998 - 2006).

13. Most goals in a tournament: Just Fontaine - 13 (1958).

14. Most goals in match: Oleg Salenko - 5 (Russia vs Cameroon, 1994).

15. Most wins as a coach: Vittorio Pozzo - 2 (Italy 1934 and 1938).

16. Highest attended match: 199 854 (Uruguay vs Brazil, 16 July 1950, Maracana Stadium).

Sources: (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/396367-south-africa-world-cup-2010-10-simple-facts-about-the-world-cup; http://internationalsoccer.suite101.com/article.cfm/ten_quick_world_cup_facts).

Manoel Island from St. Michael's Counterguard

A ray of hope

Amidst all the articles reporting about the tension that ensued in Greece and in the Maltese Parliament, one could find an article that exuded hope and courage. This is the story of Noel Aquilina who even though is disabled found hope in sports and will be covering 300 km from Messina to Pozzallo in a handcycle to collect money for Inspire. He will be accompanied by his coach, his daughter and manager. It is always nice to see that your work boss appreciates the efforts done to help those that are less fortunate than us. Following are the links to the article and to Inspire (formerly known as Razzett tal-Ħbiberija). May there be more of these initiatives and most of all may they be given more prominence. Malta and its people offer more than partisan pique when it comes to politics, religious feasts and football.

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100507/local/it-s-all-a-matter-of-will-power-disabled-accounting-clerk-says

http://www.simplygiving.org.mt/induce3005?fndid=4507A362E5EB25591625&l=1

Following is the link to the general website of Inspire:

http://www.simplygiving.org.mt/home?l=1

A quiet alley in Erice

Valletta by night

Segesta, Sicily