Six days after their disappointment in the Malta FA Jubilee Cup final, Sliema Wanderers responded in emphatic fashion by coming from behind to defeat Valletta 2โ1, securing a vital league victory and leapfrogging their rivals in the standings.
The Citizens had taken the lead in a largely cagey first half, with clear-cut chances at a premium. Valletta broke the deadlock on 34 minutes when Yuri Messias intercepted a loose pass and surged down the left flank before crossing for Brandon Paiber, who controlled well, beat his marker and calmly slotted past goalkeeper Emeka Agu.
Sliema emerged with greater intent after the break and began to push Valletta deeper into their own half. Their first real warning arrived just before the hour mark when Fernandinho and Wescley combined to set up Miguel Baggio, whose curling effort from outside the area forced Adilson Maringa into a fine save.
The equaliser arrived on 78 minutes. Jean Borg advanced down the left and picked out Fernandinho, who showed great composure to turn and fire low past Maringa to bring the Wanderers back on level terms.
The match took a dramatic turn moments later when both sides were reduced to ten men. Valletta substitute Jefferson was shown a straight red card for elbowing Murilo Freire, while the Sliema defender was also dismissed after receiving a second yellow card.
Despite the numerical balance, it was Sliema who seized the initiative late on. In the 89th minute, Miguel Baggio unleashed a long-range strike from around 35 metres which slipped through Maringaโs grasp and into the net, completing a remarkable turnaround for the Wanderers.
The win marks Sliemaโs fourth victory in six matches and lifts them into joint second place alongside ฤฆamrun Spartans, four points behind leaders Floriana and three clear of Valletta, who have now suffered back-to-back league defeats.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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