YoHealth Malta Premier – Closing round
Naxxar Lions…………1
Sliema Wanderers…..1
Sliema Wanderers secured a late equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw against Naxxar Lions, with the decisive moment arriving in added time.
The match featured limited goalmouth action during the first half, with both sides sharing possession but creating few clear chances. The first notable opportunity came on 35 minutes when Vinicius Baiano completed a forward run with a powerful effort that finished wide. Shortly afterwards, Mohamed Awad tested Matthias Debono with a shot from outside the area.
After the interval, Naxxar showed greater attacking intent. Four minutes into the second half, Joao Moura delivered a free kick that passed narrowly wide. Moments later, Baiano struck the crossbar with a header from a Vitinho corner. Vitinho also attempted an effort from distance as the Lions increased the pressure.
Naxxar made three changes to their starting line up from the side that faced Ħamrun Spartans, with Cedric Kontchou, Yeangel Montero and Vitinho included. Theo Seara Kruger, Louis Pahama and Rosiel were not in the starting eleven. For Sliema, coach Pablo Doffo selected Wescley ahead of Adam Magri Overend.
The breakthrough arrived on 82 minutes when Neil Pace Cocks found Vitinho on the left. The forward advanced and beat goalkeeper Kelvin Emeka Agu to give Naxxar the lead.
However, Sliema responded in added time. Vito Plut directed a header towards Uros Djuranovic, who evaded a challenge from Daniel Letherby before finishing past Matthias Debono to level the score.
The result leaves Sliema in eighth place, one point ahead of Naxxar. They remain two points behind Birkirkara, Gżira United, Hibernians and Marsaxlokk. Hibernians and Marsaxlokk have played one match fewer and are scheduled to meet at the Tony Bezzina Stadium on Sunday.
