BIRKIRKARA 2 PIETA’HOTSPURS 1

Rafael Ledesma and Liliu proved an instant hit for Birkirkara as they set the team on course to a comfortable victory over 10-man Pieta’ Hotspurs who made a losing start to life back in the top-flight.

In the 40th minute, Ledesma underlined his brilliance with a courageous first-timer to breathe life into his team. A short clearance by the Pieta’ defence soared just outside the box where the Brazilian anticipated everyone to fire a volley through a posse of players and into the net via the post.

More Birkirkara goals looked most likely at that stage but the closest they would come was when Camenzuli’s low drive was blocked by Cassar in two attempts.

The Hotspurs’ quest for an equaliser wasn’t helped by the dismissal of striker Zacarias with half the gaming remaining as referee Philip Farrugia sending him off for hitting out at Camenzuli in retaliation.

With 10 men and trailing, the newcomers found themselves with their backs against the wall and only the woodwork denied Birkirkara another goal as Ledesma’s delightful free-kick smacked against the post, shy the hour mark.

Fifteen minutes from time, Muscat appeared to have the freedom of the right flank and a square ball from the defender was fired home by Lilliu with a shot on the turn.

At death, the Hotspurs set up a nervous finale with Cain Attard flicking the ball home from close in after Pieta’ played a short free-kick in the box.