QORMI 1 SLIEMA WANDERERS 3

Sliema stopped the slump after three consecutive defeats including an early elimination from the FA Trophy, with an efficient win over Qormi.

Neither team had threatened until the 24th minute when Sliema found the breakthrough courtesy of a devastating run by Portuguese striker Djumo Bocar who swept past Qormi goalkeeper Matthew Farrugia.

Steve Agius tried to cover the ball for the onrushing Farrugia and hit the ball, on the line but additional referee Sandro Spiteri adjudged the shot had crossed the line and Georgian referee Lasha Silagava awarded the goal.

Sliema’s performance early on was unspectacular but efficient as they made the most of the only chance that came their way. But Qormi began to move forward with some tenacity.

Past the half hour mark, Alfred Effiong dispossessed Beppe Muscat on the edge of the penalty area but his shot was repelled by Glenn Zammit. The rebound fell at the feet of Viggiani but his shot was blocked by John Mintoff.

Sliema’s one-goal lead was too slender to give them any comfort but Azzopardi’s men were unable to impose their talents on the game after the break.

Two minutes shy the hour mark, when Micallef retrieved possession in midfield, an inviting chance beckoned. Substitute Joseph Chetcuti, on for Viggiani, chested the ball down for Effiong but the Nigerian striker miscued his shot.

Ten minutes later, Sliema doubled their lead. The agile John Mintoff should claim most of the credit as he diligently left his markers chasing shadows before serving a delicate chip to Gnabouyou.

Farrugia could only partially save the shrewd shot for Scerri to ruthlessly hammer an unstoppable shot into an open net.

At the other end, Qormi were still active in attack as Micallef’s raking shot-cum-cross from the left flashed across the face of goal where Frank Temile was on hand to push the ball over the line.

But the Wanderers kept up the pressure and were rewarded for their efforts two minutes later. Youngster Aiden Friggieri hit a swerving drive from outside the penalty that gave Farrugia no chance.