loosing spark - '96 1.0l

Hiya,
I just got a '96 Metro with the 1.0l engine. It doesn't run. I checked the spark last night - When trying to start, I get about three sparks off the #1 plug, then nothing. It'll just crank. Shut off the ignition and try again, I get three sparks then nothing. during those three sparks it sounds like it's going to fire up so I think I'm getting gas. I'll make sure after I fix this ignition problem.

I've ordered a manual for it, and am going to tear into it over the weekend. I figured those that have worked on these little gems for a while might have run into this problem before and be able to steer me in the right direction.

Thanks in advance,
Dave