In a play-off to determine the fourth Challenge Cup semi-finalists, Sliema Hotsticks got the better of White Hart by the odd goal in three.

From the first whistle White Hart pressed for an opener and on 16 minutes a David Agius hard hit inside the Sliema D was met by Matthew Camilleri who deflected the ball past the Hotsticks keeper to put White Hart one up.

A minute later White Hart almost added a second hadn’t a scorcher by Tony Azzopardi hit the upright.

In the second half, Sliema opened well and drew level through Dylan Lentini. He flicked the ball into the corner after receiving an inviting pass from Lukas Phlaen.

Sliema kept up the pressure but at the other end Agius watched his deflection going off target with the goal completely at his mercy.

For this miss White Hart paid dearly. On 52 minutes, Phlaen hit first-time a devious cross from the right which beat Vassallo Agius all ends up.

Sliema were now relying completely on counter-attacks and from one of these breaks they almost added a third had it not been for a timely intervention by Simon Agius who cleared off the line with Vassallo Agius out of position.

Tomorrow, Sliema play Qormi and Young Stars face Rabat Depiro in the semis.