Naxxar Lions took another important step towards retaining their Premier League status when they beat Qormi 2-1 at the Hibs Stadium.

The Lions took just two minutes to take the lead when Mattia Del Negro’s cross-shot caught Qormi goalkeeper Matthew Farrugia out of his place with the ball finishing into the top corner of the net.

Qormi responded on 14 minutes when Leighton Grech sped clear on the left and turned past Ibok Edet before teeing up Nilsson whose effort was deflected to a corner.

From the ensuing flag kick, the ball fell to Pisani who fired wide.

Qormi finally drew level on 48 minutes when Marcelinho retrieved possession on the edge of the area before sending a teasing cross towards Nilsson who slotted past Azzopardi.

The Lions were rattled and three minutes later Marcelinho again put Nilsson clear but the Swedish striker was brought down by Azzopardi with Arciola pointing to the spot.

However, the Naxxar goalkeeper soon made amends when he dived to his right to block Nilsson’s shot.

Six minutes later Leighton Grech dashed into the area but his curling drive finished just over.

But it was Naxxar who struck a second goal on 68 minutes when from a corner action, Gilmar’s cross completely surprised Farrugia with the ball finishing into the net.

The woodwork denied Naxxar a third goal when Gilmar’s cross was deviated by a Qormi defender with the ball coming off the bar.

At the other end Nilsson’s volley was pushed away by Azzopardi.

Naxxar goalkeeper Julian Azzopardi was voted as the BOV Player of the Match.

 

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