Birkirkara clinch title

This season's Megaman League for teams was once again made up of a five-match series between the top two local sides - defending champions Pawla Wolves Assikura and Birkirkara Firetech.

After winning the first two direct encounters 4-1 and 3-2, Birkirkara faced the third match confidently. They enjoyed a clear psychological advantage over their rivals as they needed to win just one of the remaining three matches to secure the championship.

The match was played in front of a lively crowd in which the two sets of supporters did their utmost to encourage their teams.

It was Pawla who initially forged ahead by winning the opening mixed doubles through David Cole and Catherine Dimech. They edged out Robert Salomone and Fiorella Farrugia 22-20, 21-18.

However, Birkirkara were in no mood for compromises. They reacted strongly and soon brought the match under their control.

It was their captain, Stefan Salomone, who levelled matters when he won his singles 21-7, 21-15 over Wolves' captain Kenneth Vella. Maria Borg then put Birkirkara ahead by beating Dawn Tinkler 21-6, 21-9 in the women's singles.

Birkirkara maintained their momentum even in the men's doubles which they won through brothers Stefan and Robert Salomone. They beat Vella and Cole 21-18, 21-16.

With an unassailable 3-1 lead, Birkirkara claimed the remaining women's doubles in which Maria Borg and Fiorella Farrugia had the better of Catherine Dimech and Joanne Cassar over three sets.

This signified a 4-1 final result for Birkirkara as well as the championship title.