Valletta FC…..5
Mosta FC…….0
Valletta began their Closing Round campaign with a clear 5 0 victory over Mosta, delivering a controlled performance that was settled by a strong finish in the latter stages of the match.
Valletta took the lead after just three minutes when Yuri Messias, returning from suspension, produced a well weighted pass into the path of Thaylor Aldama. The winger adjusted his body position and volleyed the ball past the goalkeeper to give his side an early advantage. Valletta controlled much of the play during the opening half but were unable to extend their lead despite creating several opportunities.
Mosta attempted to respond and went close to an equaliser midway through the first half. Cheick Diamanka played a through ball to Zachary Brincat, who held off his marker before seeing his low effort saved by goalkeeper Adilson Maringa. Later, Pedro Cacho fired over after being set up by Brincat. Valletta also threatened, with Yannick Yankam and Steijn Meijer both denied by Mosta goalkeeper Akpan.
Valletta were forced into a change on the half hour when Steve Borg left the pitch injured and was replaced by Neil Micallef. After the interval, Valletta increased their attacking pressure, with Meijer and Messias both missing chances to add to the scoreline.
The second goal arrived 12 minutes from time when Aldama delivered a cross that was headed home by Emmanuel Mbende. Substitute Andrea Zammit then made a decisive impact, scoring three times in the closing stages. He first rounded the goalkeeper to score on the break before adding a second with a composed finish after being played through by Jake Azzopardi. Zammit completed his hat trick in stoppage time, tapping in from close range following a cross from Mellilo.
The result gives Valletta a positive start to the Closing Round, with the side converting late pressure into a convincing win over Mosta.
