360Sports Malta Premier – MD25
Birkirkara………….1
Marsaxlokk………..1
In a highly anticipated clash between two teams near the top of the table, Birkirkara and Marsaxlokk played out a 1-1 draw, with both sides earning a point in a result that ultimately benefits Floriana the most.
It was an engaging contest, particularly in the first half when both goals were scored, while the second half saw fewer chances and a more cautious approach.
Birkirkara took the lead in the first real attacking move of the match. A run down the left flank by Gnamien Yipke caused defensive confusion for Marsaxlokk, allowing Paul Mbong to pick out Maia, who slotted the ball into the net from close range.
Marsaxlokk responded with several corners but created few clear-cut chances. Birkirkara, on the other hand, threatened on the counterattack, and in the 23rd minute, Lacunza combined well with Micallef, whose effort from a promising position went over the bar.
Shortly after, Aguirre delivered a dangerous cross into the box, but none of his Marsaxlokk teammates were on hand to finish. However, the equaliser arrived in the 28th minute through a moment of brilliance from Aguirre, who curled a stunning free kick past goalkeeper Volpe.
In the 32nd minute, Shaun Dimech attempted a free kick that deflected narrowly wide. Three minutes later, Yuri Messias broke away from a tight angle and struck the post, with De Aguiar Gomes firing over from the rebound.
The second half was much quieter, with the first significant effort coming in the 62nd minute when Messias sent a shot just over the crossbar. In the 79th minute, Paul Mbong created space for himself but saw his effort drift just wide.
In added time, there was controversy in the Birkirkara box as Dwain Bonnici went down under pressure, but the referee instead booked him for simulation.
Referee: Philip Farrugia
Player of the Match: Leandro Aguirre (Marsaxlokk)
Line-ups:
Birkirkara: G. Volpe, M. Morello, A. Sandona, P. Mbong, S. Dimech (N. Cross), T. Papazov (P. Gaetan), L. Lacunza, N. Micallef, A. Coppola, M. Maia, G. Gnamien Yipke (A. De Paixao Alves).
Marsaxlokk: F. Marchetti (M. Calleja Cremona), K. Micallef, J. Soares, N. Muscat, Y. Messias, J. Corbalan, E. Lopez, A. De Aguiar Gomes, E. Pena Beltre (D. Bonnici), L. Aguirre, R. Scicluna.
