Ħamrun Spartans have been knocked out of the UEFA Europa League after losing 3-1 to Maccabi Tel Aviv, making it 5-2 on aggregate in favour of the Israeli champions.
Ħamrun started the first half with determination, hoping to get something out of the match.
They had a great chance to take the lead in the 26th minute when they were awarded a penalty, after Cadenovic’s header hit a Maccabi defender’s hand.
However, Emerson Marcelina took the penalty and hit the crossbar, sending the ball over the goal.
Maccabi Tel Aviv went ahead in the 36th minute through Ido Shahar, who scored after receiving a pass from Shlomo.
The Spartans were inches away from equalising shortly after as Cadjenovic’s fierce effort smashed against the woodwork.
Ħamrun quickly responded and equalised in the 42nd minute when Joseph Mbong broke free and calmly placed the ball into the corner of the net past goalkeeper Mashpati.
But the joy didn’t last long, as Maccabi scored again 5 minutes after. It was Shahar once more, getting past the defence and finishing well.
In the second half, Maccabi sealed the win in the 69th minute. Oscher Davida made his way into the box and scored with a powerful shot past Bonello.
In Europe, Ħamrun will now play in the Conference League play-offs against RFS of Latvia, with the first game to be played next Thursday at 7pm at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali. Before that they will face newly-promoted Tarxien Rainbows in their opener of the YoHealth Malta Premier this Sunday at the Tony Bezzina Stadium.
