Hamrun salvage point against Tarxien

Hamrun Spartans salvaged a point against Tarxien Rainbows after sensationally coming back from two goals down at half-time.

There was no hint of the late drama to come as Tarxien led and had enough openings to build on the unassailable two-goal advantage with Denni and Ribeiro in scintillating form. Yet, Stephen D'Amato's side did not let their heads drop and came back with two second-half goals to set up a tense finale.

It capped an amazing turnaround, with Harmun looking out of contention after they were completely outclassed in the first half.

Inside the first 5 minutes, Ribeiro broke up a move deep in Hamrun territory. He raced forward and found Denni who swept past the Hamrun rearguard with embarrassing ease before powering a shot beyond Ivan Casha. Tarxien needed the security of a second goal to underpin their supremacy, and Denni provided it by hitting a low drive behind Casha after 25 minutes.

On the hour mark, Hamrun gave themselves an opportunity to salvage something from the match when they pulled a goal back on the hour mark. Tarxien goalkeeper Cassar hauled Manolito Micallef down as he went around the keeper and referee Chris Lautier pointed to the spot before showing Cassar the red card.

Ian Zammit threw Hamrun a lifeline as he buried the ball behind Curmi. And Hamrun's recovery was complete after 67 minutes when Zammit turned provider as he broke down the right flank in a sweeping attack and crossed for Mawete to turn home from close range.