Birkirkara put an end to their recent slump with a determined 2-0 victory over Mosta at the National Stadium, thanks to goals from Shaun Dimech and substitute Andrea Zammit. The win ended a run of two straight defeats for the Stripes and restored confidence to a side that had struggled in front of goal in recent weeks.
It was a game where Stefano De Angelis’ men showed grit and purpose, overcoming a first-half stalemate to dominate proceedings after the break. After 197 minutes without a goal, it was Dimech who broke the deadlock with a stunning strike in the 52nd minute, before Zammit secured the three points with a composed finish late on.
Both teams struggled to create clear chances in the opening 45 minutes. Mosta came close when Nathan Agius found an unmarked Zachary Brincat in the 29th minute, but the striker’s effort sailed wide. Moments later, Manuel Morello fluffed a golden opportunity for Birkirkara, firing wide after a precise cross from Maicon.
Mosta’s goalkeeper, David Akpan Udoh, had to be alert to deny a Maicon free-kick before the break, but neither side could capitalise on their chances in a subdued first half.
De Angelis made a crucial change at half-time, bringing on Juan Siafa for the ineffective Maicon. The move sparked life into Birkirkara, who finally broke the deadlock seven minutes after the restart. Leandro Lacunza played a clever one-two with Paul Mbong to release Dimech, who unleashed a thunderous shot that flew past Akpan Udoh into the top corner.
The goal seemed to galvanise the Stripes, with their attacking intent causing constant problems for Mosta’s defence. Lacunza nearly doubled the lead with a powerful strike that grazed the crossbar, while Satariano rattled the woodwork with a curling effort in the 82nd minute.
Substitute Andrea Zammit made an instant impact after replacing Mbong in the 89th minute. Collecting the ball on the right flank, Zammit showcased his skill and composure, outsmarting two Mosta defenders before driving a low shot past Akpan Udoh to make it 2-0. It was Zammit’s second goal of the season and a moment that underlined his value to the team
Birkirkara will be pleased to have steadied the ship after a difficult period that saw them lose two matches in a row to Floriana and champions Hamrun Spartans. The win lifts them back into contention and gives De Angelis’ side much-needed momentum as they look ahead to their next challenge.
For Mosta, it was another frustrating outing, with missed chances proving costly. Mario Muscat’s men will need to regroup quickly if they are to turn their season around. Birkirkara rose to the occasion in a match where both sides had much to prove, showing resilience and quality to secure a deserved win.
