Birkirkara re-open title issue

The H2Only Mixed League, comprising teams from the Premier and First Divisions, is now in full swing at the Cottonera Sports Complex.

Defending champions Pawla Wolves Assikura and Birkirkara BC are contesting the Premier Division title in a five-match series spread over five months.

The Wolves had a perfect lift-off as they managed to win the initial two encounters with a 3-2 scoreline. The third match could, therefore, have settled the title issue as a win for the Paolites would have given them an unassailable three-win lead.

However, Birkirkara beat Pawla Wolves 3-2 to keep their title hopes alive.

Birkirkara drew first blood in the opening men's singles which featured the two team captains.

Stefan Salomone prevailed over Kenneth Vella in three sets - 21-18, 16-21, 21-19.

The Wolves hit back in the ladies' singles, Didi Rasamayii defeating Maria Borg 21-13 21-9 to level the tie.

Birkirkara went ahead again in the men's doubles when brothers Robert and Stefan Salomone beat David Cole/Kenneth Vella in two sets - 21-15, 21-14.

Once again, the Wolves put the match on an even keel by taking the ladies' doubles through Joanne Cassar/Didi Rasamayii who won 21-7 21-2 against Maria Borg/Fiorella Farrugia.

With the match finely poised at 2-2, Birkirkara sealed their win in the remaining mixed doubles in which Fiorella Farrugia/Robert Salomone beat Joanne Cassar/David Cole. After losing the initial set 13-21, the Birkirkara pair fought back to win the other two sets 21-13 21-11.