Għajnsielem stay in title race

In the only match from the Melita Division One last weekend, Għajnsielem collected three precious points after edging SK Victoria Wanderers in a five-goal thriller.

Victory kept the Blacks in the title race as they trail leaders Sannat by seven points with a game in hand.

With Ferdinando Apap leading their attack, Għajnsielem enjoyed an excellent start as they opened the scoring after four minutes.

Player-coach Alex Simoncic sent in an inviting cross and Apap tapped home from close range.

Victoria hit back immmediately and successive attempts by Joseph Vella and Ige Adesina were blocked by the goalkeeper. From the resultant melee, Vella fired into the net but his effort was disallowed for offside.

The Wanderers made it 1-1 just before the half-hour mark through Ajibade Adesina’s low drive. A minute later, they could have turned the result in their favour but a header from Ige Adesina was cleared off the line. From the rebound, Ajibade Adesina’s attempt hit the post.

Għajnsielem moved 2-1 up two minutes into the second half thanks to Kenneth Mercieca who hit home after Jason Portelli’s cross was deflected into his path by Apap. The Blacks increased their lead on 58 minutes, Apap heading home from a corner.

SK Victoria Wanderers re-opened the issue on 66 minutes when Ige Adesina beat goalkeeper Joseph Grech following a break by Vella.

The Citizens increased their efforts in the final stages but Għajnsielem held on for the win.

Division Two

Pace-setters Xagħra and Kerċem Ajax registered identical 3-0 wins over Għarb Rangers and Munxar Falcons respectively. Xagħra remain seven points ahead of Kerċem but the latter have a game in hand.

Xagħra took a two-goal lead from two penalties, both converted by Errol Grima on 28 and 52 minutes. The Blues sealed the points thanks to Daniel Bartolo on the hour.

In the other match, Kerċem forged ahead after just 18 minutes through Marlon Mamo. Munxar fought back but efforts from Anthony Briffa and Christopher Micallef failed to yield an equaliser.

Kerċem dominated during the second half to make sure of victory with two more goals. Jean Paul Mizzi scored on 64 minutes and Mamo hit his second late on.