Tarxien Rainbows kept their survival hopes alive after a dramatic 3–2 extra-time victory over Żabbar St Patrick in a pulsating relegation play-off clash.
(After extra-time; 90 mins: 1–1)
Tarxien showed remarkable resilience to overturn the match after appearing on the brink of elimination. Having conceded a last-gasp equaliser that forced extra time, they fell behind again early in the additional period but refused to give in, mounting a spirited comeback to secure victory.
The first half was a tense affair, with both sides cautious given the high stakes. Tarxien enjoyed more possession, orchestrated by Claudio Henrique, but struggled to create clear chances. Their best effort came from Nhayson, whose header was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Manuel Djallo.
Żabbar’s main threat before the break came through Ryan Scicluna, whose low drive was well stopped by Tarxien goalkeeper Miguel Spiteri, who produced a series of fine saves to keep the match level.
Tarxien made the breakthrough on 67 minutes when Petar Panic struck powerfully from a corner to give the Rainbows a deserved lead.
Despite pushing forward, Tarxien failed to seal the match, and they were punished deep into stoppage time. Żabbar found an equaliser in dramatic fashion when Jovancic scored in the dying seconds to send the game into extra time.
Żabbar carried that momentum into the additional period and took the lead on 93 minutes through Cejas, leaving Tarxien facing elimination.
However, the Rainbows responded with determination. On 103 minutes, Valverde levelled the score with a stunning volley, reigniting their hopes.
With the match heading towards penalties, Tarxien completed their comeback in the 119th minute when Nhayson found the net, sealing a dramatic victory and sparking celebrations among the Rainbows’ supporters.
The result means Tarxien will now face Żabbar once again in a second relegation play-off on Sunday, with survival still hanging in the balance.
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