Hamrun get first points

Hamrun Spartans chalked up their first win of the season after edging Msida St Joseph 1-0 in a generally dull match at the National Stadium.

The Spartans scored what proved to be the winner after just 12 minutes. Rupert Mangion’s free-kick from the left sailed into the goalmouth and defender Roderick Fenech darted in to head past Manuel Bartolo, the Msida St Joseph goalkeeper.

The first half produced few scoring opportunities but the Spartans were the better side. Gaetan Spiteri threatened to double the Spartans’ lead but his rising shot was wide. Late in the first half, Bartolo denied Hamrun a second goal when blocking Jonathan Holland’s close-range header from another Mangion cross.

The Spartans continued to create the better chances after the change of ends. Manolito Micallef volleyed wide and, 21 minutes from time, Bartolo pushed away a dangerous Mangion free-kick. Another golden opportunity fell Hamrun’s way when Jonathan Holland released Mark Barbara but his run was blocked by Cedric Sciberras.

A header by Diego Cucciardi, a second-half substitute for Hamrun, was kept out by Bartolo. In the dying moments, Msida almost made it 1-1 when Iro Curmi’s cross was met by Aganun but Casha parried his effort. The loose ball fell to Kevin Mifsud who skewed his attempt.