Nine-man Lions consolidate lead at the top

Sannat Lions registered a handsome 4-1 win over lowly Xewkija Tigers in the first match from the second round to extend their lead at the top to five points notwithstanding the fact that they had two players sent off.

The Tigers, who had regular central defenders Patrick Camilleri and Josmar Vella missing due to suspension, looked the better team at first and opened the score on 26 minutes through Andreas Fotso.

But it took Sannat little time to equalise when Eric Nwankwo hit home on 35 minutes.

Xewkija could have regained the lead though, a Kyril Dyakov shot was stopped with difficulty by keeper Adrian Parnis on 37 minutes and soon after a strike by Christian Bugeja was headed off the line by Peter Buttigieg with Parnis beaten.

Xewkija were punished for those missed chances as two minutes from the break Sannat took the lead thanks to an own goal by Fotso following a cross by Chris Camilleri.

Sannat held command of play after the break. They increased the lead on the hour through a header by Nwankwo but a minute later the Lions were reduced to ten players when Mark Formosa was shown a second yellow card.

Xewkija still found it difficult to pose any threat even when the Lions were reduced to nine players 17 minutes from time when Maurice Hongla was sent off for dissent.

Sannat went on to seal the issue with a fourth goal scored by Nwankwo following a fast break.

In another match, Għajnsielem beat St Lawrence Spurs 1-0.

This match was the last from the first round. Overall the two respective rearguards gave little away in a tight first half.

The Blacks ventured forward more after the break. An effort by Joseph Attard hit the bar and Spurs keeper Samuel Micallef made a superb save to keep out a header by Jason Portelli.

Għajnsielem clinched victory seven minutes from time. Kalenga Ndayi was sent tumbling inside the box and the referee awarded them a penalty and red carded Daniel Micallef.

Yannick Ossok scored from the spot for the goal that decided the issue.

Division Two

Żebbuġ Rovers and Kerċem Ajax shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw in the last match from the first round.

This match was a direct clash between two teams needing victory to remain close with Xagħra United at the top.

The outcome only favoured the leaders though who now have a four-point lead over their nearest rivals.

Kerċem seemed heading towards victory as they led 2-0 following goals by Sabri Rais (7) and Jean Paul Mizzi (60). However, in the final stages Żebbuġ increased their efforts and reduced the score through a header by Mario Azzopardi.

The Ajax were shocked and the Rovers levelled matters two minutes from time from a penalty, awarded for a handball by Dylan Mercieca, converted by Joe Hili.