Sirens…… 0
Qrendi….. 2
Qrendi, competing in Amateur League 1, delivered a stunning upset in the Meridianbet FA Trophy, eliminating Sirens with a goal in each half. For Sirens, this elimination comes on the back of a tough period, following their recent 3-0 defeat to Lija in the Challenge League.
At the start, it seemed unlikely that Qrendi would pull off such a surprise, as Sirens began the game on the offensive, forcing Qrendi to defend for extended periods.
Sirens had their first chance 15 minutes into the game when a good move culminated in De Bortoli shooting over from an ideal position. Three minutes later, Qrendi responded with a first-time effort from Bray, which went wide.
In the 31st minute, Sirens came close again with a well-worked move that saw Conceicao fire just over the bar from the edge of the penalty area. However, five minutes later, Qrendi took the lead unexpectedly. A quickly taken free-kick found Fernandes, who rounded goalkeeper Cassar and slotted into an empty net.
Sirens immediately pushed for an equaliser, with Nonato striking the crossbar from a tight angle.
Eleven minutes into the second half, Qrendi doubled their advantage. Christian Joseph Degabriele scored on the rebound after Moran’s initial effort hit the post. This left Sirens reeling, but they almost pulled one back shortly after, with Trezeguet Zammit sending his shot just over the bar.
As the game progressed, Sirens continued to attack in a disorganised and imprecise manner, failing to break down Qrendi’s well-structured defence. Qrendi, in contrast, remained disciplined at the back and even threatened on the counterattack.
In the end, Qrendi held firm to secure a famous victory and advance to the last 16 of the competition.
Line-ups:
Sirens: A. Cassar, R. Mercieca, S. Elfarsi, T. Nonato, G. Martins Leite, K. Muscat, L. De Bortoli, F. Conceicao, M. Akadom, J. Borg, A. Messina.
Qrendi: M. Abela, N. Spiteri, L. Fernandes, A. Carvalho, B. Bray, K. Theuma, R. Spiteri, J.C. Vella, C. Degabriele, S. Moran, G. Micallef.
Referee: Fyodor Zammit
