Premier League: Stripes edge closer to first round triumph
A goal scored at the beginning of the second half by Alessandro Coppola gave the maximum points to Birkirkara in a direct clash against Sliema Wanderers. A win which kept the Stripes at the summit of the 360Sport Malta Premier with a four point lead
A goal scored at the beginning of the second half by Alessandro Coppola gave the maximum points to Birkirkara in a direct clash against Sliema Wanderers. A win which kept the Stripes at the summit of the 360Sport Malta Premier with a four point lead over second placed Floriana.
This was the first defeat for Sliema after seven matches but they still hold onto fourth place in the standings.
The first part of the match was rather balanced with play restricted to the midfield area and neither side setting any bushes on fire. It was only just past the half hour when Birkirkara threatened. It was Morello who though well placed saw his shot saved by the opposing goalkeeper.
Five minutes from the break it was the Stripes once again this time through Satariano who after making his way past Alcino saw his shot end just wide. And on the stroke of half time it was Mbong who missed from close range.
Birkirkara scored what proved to be the winner six minutes into the second period. It was off a corner from the right side with the ball drafted into the net by the Stripes skipper Alessandro Coppola.
Sliema's reaction came on 69 minutes when a headed effort by Gomes da Mata was tipped by the Birkirkara goalkeeper. The Blues were now pressing forward and practically send all personnel on the attack.
But till the end they failed to find a way past a stubborn Birkirkara rearguard with the final whistle welcomed with a sigh of relief by the yellows from Birkirkara. The Stripes keep marching on and are well positioned to finish at the top of the table at the end of the first round.
Photo: Domenic AquilinaRelated
Share this page
Guest Posts by Easy Branches
