Pietà Hotspurs denied Sliema Wanderers the satisfaction of grabbing their third successive league victory when they grabbed a dramatic 1-1 draw at the Hibs Stadium.

Sliema had held the edge for much of the opening half.

On eight minutes Djumo Bocar released Trevor Cilia who with only Miguel Montfort to beat fired over.

On 20 minutes the Wanderers had another good opportunity when they were awarded a central free-kick and Pedrinho’s swerving shot was pushed over by the alert Montfort.

Sliema remained the better side but they had to wait until the 39th minute to take the lead when Bocar retrieved possession in midfield and embarked on a surging run that took him past two defenders before slotting the ball past the onrushing Montfort.

Pietà showed signs of recovery on the restart and on 56 minutes Micallef’s effort was easily blocked by Glenn Zammit, the Sliema goalkeeper.

Pietà had another opportunity on 69 minutes when Gabriel’s dipping cross was punched away by Zammit into the path of Christian Grech whose effort was blocked by a fine tackle from Beppe Muscat.

At the other end, Cilia’s curling shot was well blocked by Montfort.

When Sliema looked set to take the win Pietà grabbed the equaliser on 89 minutes.

 From a corner action, Jurgen Pisani’s cross found Leonardo Fortunato who directed a firm header past Glenn Zammit.

Sliema striker Djumo Bocar was voted as the BOV Player of the match.