Meridianbet FA Trophy – Final
BIRKIRKARA…….1
HIBERNIANS……2
Hibernians lifted the Meridianbet FA Trophy after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Birkirkara, claiming the trophy for the 11th time in the club’s history – their first since 2013.
Birkirkara suffered an early setback when Alessandro Coppola was shown a straight red card after just 14 minutes for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. From the resulting free-kick, Apostolos Martinis slotted past Giacomo Volpe to give Hibernians the lead.
Despite being a man down, the Stripes showed great determination, especially in the second half. Their efforts were rewarded in the 72nd minute when Maxuell Maia fired in a brilliant free-kick that left Sanchez with no chance.
However, Hibernians responded quickly. Just eight minutes later, Apostolos Martinis delivered a corner that found Kurt Shaw, who rose above everyone to head home and restore the lead.
Hibernians had chances to extend their advantage, but the 2-1 scoreline was enough to secure their long-awaited FA Trophy triumph.
Birkirkara: Giacomo Volpe, Luis Cordova, Pablo Gaitan, Tomislav Papazov, Alex Satariano (capt.), Leandro Lacunza, Neil Micallef, Alessandro Coppola, Donovan Makoma, Maxuell Maia, Nicholas Agius (62′ Kemar Reid) coach: Stefano de Angelis
Hibernians: Pablo Sanchez, Rui Fragoso, Alfred Silas (77′ Dexter Xuereb), Kurt Shaw, Lucas Villela, Khevin Fraga, Mullen (65′ Alex Bruno), Jurgen Degabriele (65′ Matthew Ellul), Bjorn Kristensen (capt.), Ilias Apostolos, Pedro Nunes coach: Branko Nisevic
Referee: Malcolm Spiteri
