360Sports Malta Premier 2024/25
Second Phase – Opening Round
Hamrun Spartans…..2
Floriana…………………..1
Hamrun Spartans inflicted Floriana’s first loss in the 360 Sports Malta Premier Opening Round Top 6, securing a 2-1 victory at the National Stadium on Sunday. Luke Montebello’s impressive brace proved decisive as the Spartans claimed a vital win.
The result leaves Floriana three points adrift of league leaders Birkirkara and just two points ahead of third-placed Sliema Wanderers. Hamrun Spartans remain in fifth, but the victory adds momentum to their push for a higher finish.
Hamrun struck early, taking the lead in the 8th minute after being awarded a penalty. Carlo Zammit Lonardelli was penalized for a foul on Raphael Lopes, and Montebello confidently converted from the spot.
The Spartans doubled their advantage just before halftime. A cross into the area found Montebello on the left, and the forward calmly slotted the ball past Floriana goalkeeper Christoffer Mafoumbi to make it 2-0.
Floriana showed resilience in the second half and reduced the deficit in the 53rd minute. Franklin Sasere’s effort from the left forced a save from Henry Bonello, but substitute Kyrian Nwoko capitalized on the rebound, finishing from close range.
Despite pushing for an equalizer, Floriana were unable to break down a disciplined Hamrun defense, ensuring the Spartans walked away with all three points.
This victory gives Hamrun a morale boost as they aim to climb higher in the standings, while Floriana will rue missed opportunities to stay closer to Birkirkara at the top. The title race continues to intensify with each passing matchday.
FLORIANA
C. Maffoumbi, O. El Hasni, M. Veselji, J. Grech, D. Vella, C. Zammit Lonardelli, F. Sasere, A. Kouro (79 Allionida), Fernandinho (46 K. Nwoko), G. Yameogo (46 O. Spiteri), E. De Souza.
ĦAMRUN SPARTANS
H. Bonello, M. Ellul, D. Letherby, L. Montebello (46 G. Vella) (67 R. Camenzuli), Talison, J. Mbong, Elionay, Mayron, K. Scicluna (71 S. Borg), E. Marcelina (85 S. Agius), R. Lopes Silva.
Referee Philip Farrugia
