Mġarr United sealed a remarkable domestic treble after retaining the Assikura Women’s Knock-Out with a narrow but deserved victory over Birkirkara in a tightly contested final.
The Greens capped an outstanding campaign, having already clinched the league title and the Jubilee Cup, confirming their dominance across all major domestic competitions this season.
The decisive moment arrived early in the match. Just 10 minutes in, Yulya Carella rose to meet a well-delivered ball from Maria Hernandez, heading past goalkeeper Maleni Morales to give Mġarr a lead they would not relinquish.
Under the guidance of coach Ryan Vella, Mġarr maintained their trusted structure despite the absence of top scorer Valeria Villegas. In her place, the team leaned on the experience of key players such as Alejandra Villegas, Yanina Méndez, Hernandez and Josline N’Guessan.
Birkirkara, coached by Charlene Zammit, were also missing influential captain Stephania Farrugia through injury. Nevertheless, they fielded a competitive side led by top scorer Momo Ueda.
Mġarr made a strong start and nearly doubled their advantage soon after the opener, but Morales produced a fine save to deny Alejandra Villegas. Birkirkara responded with a long-range effort from Amelia Vassallo, comfortably handled by goalkeeper Giulia D’Antuono.
The Greens remained the more threatening side before the break, with N’Guessan firing wide and Hernandez sending an effort over as they pushed for a second goal.
The second half saw fewer clear chances as the tempo dropped. Birkirkara increased the pressure in search of an equaliser but struggled to break down a well-organised Mġarr defence. The closest either side came to another goal was when N’Guessan struck the crossbar with a powerful effort, while Ueda’s free-kick attempt sailed over.
In the end, Mġarr managed the game effectively to preserve their slender lead and secure yet another trophy in what has been a historic season.
Carella’s decisive contribution earned her the Best Player of the Match award, capping an impressive individual display.
Following the final whistle, the presentation ceremony took place in a celebratory atmosphere. Lucienne Cini, Chief Operating Officer of Assikura Insurance Brokers PCC Limited, together with Manuela Tesse, head coach of the Malta women’s national team, presented medals to both teams and match officials, including referee Sara Kankaras.
The celebrations reached their peak when Mġarr captain Abigail Camilleri lifted the trophy, marking a fitting conclusion to an exceptional and memorable season for the Greens.
Mġarr United 1–0 Birkirkara
Y. Carella 10’
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
Leave a Reply