Malta secured a commanding 42-0 win against Italy in Bagarnia Arsa, retaining the Medieval Shield for the fifth consecutive time. The victory, a record for Malta, was highlighted by the outstanding performance of 17-year-old Castleford Tigers Academy product Harrison Jewitt, who crossed for two tries, including a stunning long-range effort from his own half.

The match was tense, with tempers flaring throughout. Italy’s Davide Colla was sent to the sin bin after striking Malta’s Alfie Jewitt. However, Alfie and the Maltese team remained unstoppable.

Josh Gatt and captain Karl Cassar combined effectively in the halves, each scoring two tries, while fullback Zarrin Galea delivered the try of the match - a breathtaking 112-meter run from behind his own goalposts, slicing through the Italian defense.

Leading 20-0 at halftime, Malta’s defense remained resolute, fulfilling a halftime promise to keep Italy scoreless. Malta’s forwards - Zarb, Cassar, Vella, Davenport, and Dimech—provided a solid foundation, powering the team forward.

Outgoing head coach Philip Humphrey expressed pride in his team, stating, ‘The boys have exceeded expectations once again.’ Team Manager Anthony Micallef praised the squad’s determination, noting, ‘The players promised to defend Italy to zero at halftime, and they kept their word.’

Malta will face Italy again in a return fixture for the Medieval Shield in 2025.

Well done, boys!