Stripes trounce Sliema

Sliema Raiders were no match for Birkirkara yesterday as the Stripes made up for losing the national league title by lifting the Ritemix KO trophy following a 5-0 victory at the Centenary Stadium.

With Hibernians crowned champions a few weeks ago, Birkirkara secured the final honour of the season with a sound performance.

They gave underdogs Sliema Raiders, perhaps overwhelmed by the occasion, little chance to settle down and try to cause a surprise.

Birkirkara took a reassuring 3-0 half-time lead following goals by Isabelle Mazzitelli (6th), Kelly Agius Pace (19th) and Catherine Camilleri (23rd).

Sliema attempted a reaction after the break but Nora Agliano made it 4-0 midway through the second half and all but sealed Birkirkara's victory. Right on the stroke of time, Camilleri added Birkirkara's fifth goal to round up a fine day for her team.

Trophies and mementoes were presented to the finalists by MFA vice-president and Women's Football chairman Ludovigo Micallef and representatives of Gatt Brothers, the sponsors of the tournament.

With the domestic season now over, the focus shifts to the national team. At present, coach Pierre Brincat has a squad of 22 players training under his guidance but the list will be trimmed to 18 for the UEFA mini-tournament in Estonia later this month. The contingent leaves the island on June 24.