Sliema Frank Salt lifted the Enemed Cup after edging out Sirens Build Fitness 16–13 in a thrilling and hard-fought final. The match showcased high tempo, attacking quality, and bursts of momentum from both sides, but Sliema’s depth and sharper finishing proved decisive in the closing stages.
A Fast Start and End-to-End First Half
Both teams opened aggressively, trading early goals and exclusions as the game quickly found its rhythm. Sirens kept pace thanks to strong contributions from their key offensive trio — Matthias Ortoleva, J. Zerafa Gregory, and Zach Mizzi — who together accounted for nine of the team’s 13 goals.
Sliema, however, responded with structured build-up play and clinical shooting from their main scorers, particularly Liam Galea, who delivered a standout performance with four goals, keeping his side ahead during crucial phases.
Sirens Fight Back but Sliema Maintain Control
Sirens’ best spell arrived in the second and early third quarter, with Ortoleva and Mizzi finding the net at key moments. Defensive exclusions against Sliema briefly gave Sirens a path back into contention, with the gap narrowing to just one goal at several points.
But Sliema’s response was immediate. Elijah Schembri, Jake Cachia, and Sam Engerer added important goals, while Jayden Cassar and Benji Cachia provided valuable support on both ends of the pool.
Sliema’s Finishing Power Secures the Trophy
With the match finely balanced heading into the final quarter, Sliema’s attacking efficiency ultimately made the difference.
Goals from Galea (4), Schembri (3), Jake Cachia (3), and Engerer (2) gave the Blues the edge as fatigue began to affect Sirens.
Despite late efforts from Ortoleva and Zerafa Gregory, Sliema’s defensive discipline held strong in the final minutes, closing out the match with a three-goal advantage.
Final Score
Sliema Frank Salt – 16
Sirens Build Fitness – 13
Top Performers
Sliema Frank Salt
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Liam Galea – 4 goals
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Elijah Schembri – 3 goals
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Jake Cachia – 3 goals
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Sam Engerer – 2 goals
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Jayden Cassar – 2 goals
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Benji Cachia – 2 goals
Sirens Build Fitness
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Matthias Ortoleva – 4 goals
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J. Zerafa Gregory – 2 goals
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Zach Mizzi – 2 goals
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Andreas Galea – 1 goal
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Gabriel Pace – 1 goal
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Matthew Sciberras – 3 goals
A Final Worthy of the Occasion
The Enemed Cup Final delivered everything expected from two of the competition’s most competitive squads: energy, creativity, and a nail-biting contest. Sirens pushed relentlessly, but Sliema’s superior balance, tighter defending, and efficient shooting earned them a well-deserved victory — and the 2025 Enemed Cup title.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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