Marsaxlokk secured second place in the standings after edging Naxxar Lions 3–2, while Valletta boosted their title ambitions with a 2–1 win over Ħamrun Spartans in a decisive day of action.
With no room for error in the race for second spot, Marsaxlokk delivered when it mattered most. Despite a late push from Naxxar, the Southerners held their nerve to claim a vital victory and confirm their place among the top contenders.
Ħamrun Spartans, meanwhile, showed signs of improvement compared to recent outings and created several promising chances, but they were undone by a clinical Valletta side that made the most of its opportunities.
The result ensures Valletta’s place in the Final Four, where they will join Floriana, Marsaxlokk and Ħamrun Spartans in the title battle. Valletta are now set to face their fierce rivals Floriana in the semi-finals, while Ħamrun Spartans will take on Marsaxlokk, with both matches scheduled for May 9.
In the clash between Valletta and Ħamrun, Spartans coach Giacomo Modica made four changes to his starting line-up, recalling Emerson Marcelina in defence, while Jonny, Damir Ceter and Kleri Serber were also handed starting roles.
Ħamrun started brightly and threatened early through Matthew Guillaumier and Matias Garcia, but Valletta goalkeeper Maringa proved difficult to beat with a series of important saves. The Spartans came closest in the first half when Ceter struck the upright, while Serber also went close.
Valletta made their move in the second half, taking the lead on 53 minutes through substitute Jackson Mendoza, who unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner. Ħamrun responded quickly, levelling matters through Compri after good work by Jonny and Ceter.
However, the Citizens had the final say. From a corner, substitute Adebayo rose highest to head home and restore Valletta’s advantage, sealing a crucial win despite late pressure from the Spartans. A late red card shown to Danilo Bulevardi was later downgraded to a yellow following a review.
At the Tony Bezzina Stadium, Marsaxlokk were made to work hard for their win over Naxxar Lions. An early effort from Domantas Šimkus was ruled out, but they took the lead on 28 minutes when James Kirby finished from close range following a pass by Dodo Soares.
Naxxar levelled just before half-time through Vitinho, but Marsaxlokk responded immediately, with Kirby grabbing his second goal after an effort by Ulises Arias was partially blocked.
Marsaxlokk extended their lead on 73 minutes when Niki curled home a fine effort from a free-kick. Naxxar reduced the deficit late on through Gabriel Goncalves, but it was not enough to deny Marsaxlokk a crucial victory.
The results set the stage for an exciting Final Four, with the title race now wide open heading into the semi-finals.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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