YoHealth Malta Premier – Closing round Matchday 5
Birkirkara….1
Valletta…….0
Birkirkara claimed their second consecutive victory with a narrow 1-0 win over Valletta at the Tony Bezzina Stadium, marking a perfect start under new head coach Paul Zammit.
The opening half was largely uneventful, with neither side managing to create clear-cut chances, and the teams went into the break locked in a goalless draw.
Birkirkara came out with greater intent after the interval and were awarded a penalty five minutes into the second half when Garzia’s effort struck the hand of Steve Borg, prompting referee Slobodan Petrovic to point to the spot. Alessandro Coppola stepped up, but Valletta goalkeeper Aldison Maringa produced an excellent save to deny the Italian from 11 metres.
The Stripes remained composed despite the setback and continued to push for a breakthrough. Their persistence was finally rewarded in the 87th minute when Donovan Makoma rose highest to head home from a Geoffrey Acheampong corner, beating Maringa to secure a crucial three points.
The victory strengthens Birkirkara’s push for a top-six finish and underlines the positive impact of Paul Zammit’s early tenure in charge.
