City give fans perfect Christmas present

In 1948, Valletta claimed one of their best ever results against rivals Floriana. The Citizens, who in the past played second fiddle to Floriana, hammered the Greens by the incredible score of 5-0 on February 4, 1948.

This defeat had serious repercussions for a number of Floriana players. The Greens could not stomach such a humiliating loss against their foes. Something drastic had to be done.

On February 28, 1948, all the first-team players were demoted and the second division side that consisted entirely of Ajax players was roped in. It was an historic moment. The young Ajax players made a successful debut in the first division, beating Melita 2-0 in the most difficult conditions.

Despite the strong wind, which made ball control very difficult, the youngsters played delightful football, showing they were ready to face the rigours of top-flight football.

From that moment, Floriana never looked back. The Greens went through one of the brightest periods in their long history and, as if to show their return to glory, in 1955 they crushed Valletta 6-1 to take revenge for their 1948 humiliation.

Valletta had to wait 14 years before they registered another high-scoring victory over their arch-rivals. The opportunity came in season 1962-63. By this time, the famous Ajax players were aging. It was once again a time for change for Floriana and the revamp had to be made quickly if they were to avoid losing their reputation.

1962-63 was another golden season for Valletta. Despite starting the campaign without the services of Joe ‘Ginger’ Zammit, who was preparing to move to Australia, the Citizens opened the season on a top note, beating St George’s and Hibs.

After their strong start, Valletta stumbled. They lost to Sliema Wanderers and then dropped another point against Ħamrun Spartans.

Gloom enveloped on the City camp but two resounding victories lifted their morale. On December 2, 1962, Valletta beat Birkirkara 6-0. Mario Azzopardi scored four of the goals, the other two coming from Josie Urpani and Charlie Williams.

On Sunday, December 22, 1962, there was a jovial atmosphere at the Stadium. With Christmas just three days away, both sets of supporters were in high spirits but no-one was prepared for the package of Christmas cheer Valletta were about to bestow on Floriana.

Playing one of their best games for many a season, Valletta annihilated the reigning champions by six goals to nil.

The inspirational players in this great victory were winger Borg and Joe Zammit. The former gave Lolly Debattista the run-a-round while Zammit, more direct and effective, had a hand in the goals and was himself one of the scorers.

Azzopardi scored a fine hat-trick, taking his total to seven in two matches. Urpani helped himself to two goals while young Tony Calleja, playing in the unaccustomed position of inside-left, had an excellent game.

Valletta exposed Floriana’s limitations. The team faltered and never again seriously challenged for the championship. On the other hand, this victory gave Valletta the impetus required to put up a serious challenge for the championship. The Whites went from strength to strength. They beat then leaders Sliema Wanderers 1-0 in the most thrilling and exciting match of the season to go top of the table.

Hibs now assumed the role of chief challengers to Valletta. Only a point separated the two teams.

Valletta, however, were in no mood to make mistakes and, inspired by their famous 6-0 victory over Floriana, they won all their remaining matches to take the Johnnie Walker Cup to the capital for the third time in five years.