Wolves capture Premier title

This season's Premier Division title, from the H2Only Mixed League, was to be assigned at the end of a five-match series between the top two local clubs - Pawla Wolves Assikura and Birkirkara BC.

After the initial three fixtures, the Paolites partially surrendered their 2-0 lead by stumbling at the third hurdle.

Birkirkara promptly profited from their opponents' indecision to take the third match, thereby re-opening the title race.

With the series at 2-1, the fourth encounter was open to any outcome.

A second consecutive win for Birkirkara would have fittingly set the stage for the final showdown between the two clubs.

But it was not to be. The Wolves, despite the absence of regular player Catherine Dimech through injury, determinedly made the fourth encounter their own to open an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series and put this season's national title definitely beyond their opponents' reach.

It was Birkirkara who forged ahead in the opening men's singles in which Stefan Salomone beat David Cole 21-11 21-9. However, the Wolves quickly drew level by taking the ladies' singles through Didi Rasamayii. She overcame Maria Borg 21-6 21-11.

Birkirkara nosed in front once again by winning the men's doubles which Robert and Stefan Salomone won against Kenneth Vella/David Cole 21-17 21-14.

Nevertheless, the Wolves were not prepared to throw in the towel. They put the encounter once again on an even keel by taking the ladies' doubles. Joanne Cassar/Didi Rasamayii beat Fiorella Farrugia/Maria Borg 21-10 21-9.

With the score tied at two-all, the remaining mixed doubles was to decide the issue. This went the Paolites' way at the end of a three-set thriller in which Cassar/Vella came from behind to beat Farrugia/Robert Salomone 16-21 21-12 21-13.