Late goals as Mqabba, Balzan share spoils

MQABBA-2, BALZAN YOUTHS-2

Mqabba struck in stoppage time to rescue a point in a 2-2 draw with Balzan Youths this evening.

A low-key match produced some late drama as the two teams traded four goals in the final 18 minutes, Branislav Timotic scoring the equaliser for Mqabba after Pedrinho's second strike had put Balzan 2-1 ahead.

The two goalkeepers were hardly tested in a dull first half. Balzan created the first noteworthy move of the game when Brazilian forward Pedrinho raced into the box but his cut-back eluded Martin Deanov, who making his debut for Balzan along with Nigerian forward Anthony Eviparker.

At the other end, Mqabba striker Thiago Mazzitelli drifted infield from the left but his low drive was easily saved by Matthew Camilleri, the Balzan goalkeeper.

Mqabba struggled to contain a swift passing move involving Pedrinho and Eviparker but Ryan Sammut dashed into the box to close down the latter.

Six minutes from the end of the first half, Mqabba's Bojan Mamic miscued his volley while Kris Calleja, the Mqabba goalkeeper, saved a long-range effort from Deanov.

Balzan wasted an inviting opportunity to forge ahead nine minutes into the second half. Eviparker's floated pass released Deanov who crossed low for the unmarked Dylan Grima but the on-loan Valletta midfielder stumbled and Mqabba goalkeeper Kris Calleja blocked.

After another passage of poor football, Balzan took the lead 18 minutes from time, Pedrinho scoring from close range after being released by substitute Bjorn Bondin.

Mqabba took five minutes to redress equilibrium, Mauro Bonnici scoring with a dipping shot which surprised Camilleri.

The game opened up as the end approached. Balzan regained the lead nine minutes from time when Pedrinho scored with a perfectly-placed shot from the edge of the box after receiving from Eviparker.

As the game moved into stoppage time, Balzan looked well-placed to hang on to their lead but Mqabba had other ideas. In dying stages, Clayton Micallef's long ball upfield turned into a perfect cross for the unmarked Branislav Timotic who beat Camilleri with a looping header.

Pedrinho was named BOV player of the match.