Floriana underlined their title credentials with a 1-0 victory over Hibernians, while Birkirkara strengthened their push for a Top Six place thanks to a late 2-0 win against Żabbar St Patrick.
At the National Stadium, Floriana made another decisive statement in the YoHealth Malta Premier League as Moustapha Jah’s early strike proved enough to secure all three points and extend their lead at the top to four points. The Greens started brightly and could have been two goals up within the opening quarter-hour. Jah broke the deadlock on 15 minutes with a composed finish past Hugo Sacco, before seeing his penalty brilliantly saved by the Hibs goalkeeper just two minutes later.
The Paolites, depleted by injuries and suspensions, struggled to respond and were forced into an early change when Charleston limped off. Their best chance came late on, when Gabriel Villela’s cross-shot narrowly evaded Cleiton in front of goal. However, Floriana remained in control throughout and comfortably held on to consolidate their position ahead of a challenging run of fixtures against Birkirkara, Ħamrun Spartans, and Sliema Wanderers.
Meanwhile, at the Centenary Stadium, Birkirkara returned to winning ways in a tight encounter with Żabbar St Patrick. The match offered little in the way of chances until the 41st minute, when Leandro Lacunza’s precise through ball released Lucas Macula, who coolly chipped over goalkeeper Luca Camilleri to open the scoring.
Żabbar pushed forward after the interval and substitute Jurgen Pisani went close, but the Stripes’ defence stood firm. In stoppage time, substitute Kemar Reid sealed the win with a determined run and powerful finish to make it 2-0.
The result lifts Birkirkara level on points with Marsaxlokk in fifth place, while Żabbar St Patrick remain just outside the Top Six, still searching for consistency in their debut Premier League campaign.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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