The festive season brings one of the most popular traditions in local blackball, the annual Christmas competitions. This year, the Malta Blackball Federation is in full swing as the tournaments reach the semi-final stage, with a very high standard of play and several surprising results.
Between today and Tuesday, two important matches will take place. Cospicua Rangers will meet Ħamrun 147 A in what should be a close contest, with both teams showing strong and steady form this season. Qormi Pinto A will also face Mrieħel Billiard House A, a match expected to feature solid tactics and good technical play.
In the regional competition, the teams that have reached the semi-finals are San Ġwann Tiki Taka Spartans, San Ġwann Tiki Taka Boys, Ħamrun 147 B, and Valletta Fossa Boys.
The Spartans beat Ħamrun 147 C 21-13, while the Tiki Taka Boys won 23-21 against Selmun Sports Club. Ħamrun 147 B narrowly defeated Qormi Pinto B 23-22, and Valletta Fossa Boys went through after receiving a bye.
In the first leg of the semi-finals already played, Ħamrun 147 B earned a strong 13-7 win over Valletta Fossa Boys, giving them a good advantage for the return leg.
In the community tournament, Cospicua Rangers won a close match against PL Floriana, finishing 21-19. San Ġwann Tiki Taka Buddies and 1889 Bar Ħamrun both earned 21-13 wins against Siġġiewi Montekristo and PL Balzan B. Birkirkara Boċċi also reached the semi-finals with a comfortable 21-12 victory over Birkirkara Boċċi B.
The semi-finals of the Community Christmas Trophy, taking place between tomorrow and next Monday, will feature two exciting matches: Cospicua Rangers vs San Ġwann Tiki Taka Buddies, and 1889 Bar Ħamrun vs Birkirkara Boċċi.
