Late extra time goal sends Wanderers into FA Trophy Final

Sliema Wanderers will meet Floriana in next Sunday’s Izibet Trophy after the Blues beat Birkirkara by a solitary goal scored four minutes from the end of extra time.It was a match which Birkirkara will surely rue the missed chances which in the

By: independent.com.mt

May 09 2024
0
3977 Views

Late extra time goal sends Wan

Sliema Wanderers will meet Floriana in next Sunday’s Izibet Trophy after the Blues beat Birkirkara by a solitary goal scored four minutes from the end of extra time.

It was a match which Birkirkara will surely rue the missed chances which in the end cost them dearly. This defeat ended Birkirkara’s hopes of participating in Europe next season with Marsaxlokk now assured of this slot thanks to their fourth placing in the league.

Birkirkara and Sliema had already met twice during this season in the league with the Stripes winning the first round encounter with the second round match ending on a goaless draw.

For Sliema Wanderers the dream season continues after gaing promotion only this time last year.

The first half lacked action and both teams rarely ventured forward. In fact goalmouth actions were at a premium. A Gomes free-kick was easily saved by Zapytowski.

The Stripres responded through a Kurt Zammit long range shot which was saved by Al Tumi.

And on the stroke of half time Sliema went near when Vito Plut could have done better when he was freed on the left side of the box but his tame shot was blocked by the Stripes goalkeeper.

Birkirkara dominated the second half and just past the hour Pena Beltre headed backwards towards Simon Zibo but the latters shot was deflected into a corner by Beerman.

In the 70th minute Maxuell Maia made his way forward and with only Al Tumi to beat his shot was partially blocked and from the rebound Al Tumi arrived first on the ball beating Satariano.

Six minutes from the end of the first half another Birkirkara chance this time maybe the best one when Mbong had only the Sliema goalkeeper to beat but Al Tumi was on the alert to save.

And a minute later off a Coppola cross from the right side Mbong headed over the bar. The match ended all square and extra time was needed.

Things were heading towards a penalty shoot out but Sliema Wanderers scored the all important winner in the 116th minute. Kondrakov and Minala were both fouled in the area by Zapytowski and Coppola respectively and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. From the penalty that ensued Joseph Minala converted to the delight of the Blues supporters.

In the dying moments Sliema were reduced to ten man when Edmond Agius was given the marching orders following an ugly foul on Nicholas Agius.

The final whistle was greeted with great joy from the Sliema faithful who will now cross swords with Floriana in the Final which will be played on Sunday.

Photo: Domenic Aquilina