Saints' message of intent

San Ġiljan Tropicana yesterday relayed a message of intent to all other candidates for the league title that this year might well be a successful one for them.

In a rip-roaring match against Sliema McDonald's, the Saints again had the tactical sagacity of Italian coach Marco Risso behind their success. They also had the added bonus of including Matthew Zammit in their side, back from his duties with RN Imperia.

The Blues fought hard and at times seemed they could leave their mark but they did not have enough strength to last the pace.

A balanced first quarter ended on an even keel with six goals being scored. The second produced the same number of goals with the sides changing ends six goals apiece.

Midway through the third part of the game, John Brownrigg was excluded with substitution but the status quo prevailed until San Ġiljan moved on an 8-6 lead before the last resumption.

The last session promised to be a nail-biting affair with Sliema dead bent on bouncing back but San Ġiljan were not going to be outdone.

In vain were the egoals from Clint Debono and John Soler because the Saints kept their nerves, winning the last part of the game 4-2.

San Ġiljan 12
Silema 8
(3-3, 3-3, 2-0, 4-2)

San Ġiljan: D. Camilleri, C. Spiteri de Barro, C. Gialanze 1, B. Popovic 1, M. Borg Spiteri, M. Zammit 4, P. Fava 2, A. Bianchi 1, M. Pace, A. Borda, Y. Vasovic 2, J. Xerri de Caro, K. Lanzon 1, S. Schembri.

Sliema: J. Cachia, J. Gabaretta, N. Lubrano, B. Rath 1, M. Meli, J. Soler 2, D. Paolella, J. Brownrigg, C. Debono 3, J. Valletta 1, M. Rizzo, O. Frikk 1, R. Coleiro, J. Spiteri Staines, M. Spiteri Staines.

Referees: A. Severo, P. Balzan.

Next fixtuers

Today: 6.15 p.m. San Ġiljan vs Marsascala; 7.30 p.m. Neptunes vs Ta' Xbiex.