Xewkija move out of drop zone

Xewkija Tigers had the better of SK Victoria Wanderers 2-1 in the only match from the top flight in Gozo last weekend to move out of the relegation zone.

The Wanderers, who gave a debut to Florin Anton, were looking to win this match and join Victoria Hotspurs and Nadur at the top. However, they sorely felt the absence of central defenders Williams Akande and David Udo Monday and their cause was not helped by the first-half dismissal of Joseph Vella.

Xewkija opened the scoring on 13 minutes thanks to a fine header by Rodney Buttigieg.

The Wanderers could have levelled matters a few minutes later but a shot by Joseph Vella hit the woodwork.

The Wanderers suffered a setback 11 minutes from half-time when Vella was sent off for a second caution. However, Ige Adesina gave Victoria hope when tapping the ball home to level the score a minute after the restart.

On 68 minutes, Victoria's Chris Sciortino was unlucky to see his shot come off the post. In the final stages of the match, Xewkija made their numerical advantage count.

Chris Camilleri, who is expected to join Hibs next month, shot against the bar but 11 minutes from time the experienced winger scored Xewkija's winner with a thunderous volley.

Division Two

Żebbuġ Rovers and Oratory Youths chalked up important wins over Qala St Joseph and Munxar Falcons respectively.

The Rovers beat lowly Qala thanks to Abdul Mutalib's 50th minute goal.

Oratory leapfrogged Munxar into third place on goal difference after a 2-0 win.

Oratory were the more organised team and veteran Dione Lautier put them ahead on the half-hour mark.

Oratory made sure with a second goal scored by substitute Adrian Farrugia.