Qormi Poiatti 0
Sliema Hotsticks 0

This match lived up to its billing and provided the best hockey played this season. Pace, passion and total commitment from start to finish was manifested by both teams.

Qormi did not take advantage of six penalty corners awarded to them in the first half and could not break down the Hotsticks’ defence, the latter being content to operate through fast counter attacks down the flanks.

In the first minute of the second half, Alessandro Amore chased a loose ball down the right flank and crossed into a favourable position but Hotsticks were unable to capitalise as Qormi goalkeeper Ramon Chircop smothered their effort on goal.

On 38 minutes, Chircop brought the house down when he effected a save diving full length to his right to prevent a certain goal.

Almost immediately, at the other end, Emile Borg saved Hotsticks from falling behind with a timely intervention.

Play flowed from end to end with both teams going for the jugular but the final whistle blew with Hotsticks having to be content with a goalless draw, leaving Qormi with equal points and a game in hand. They’re now favourites for the title.

Meanwhile, the two teams cross swords again in the final of the HAM KO, tomorrow.

The match starts at 7.30pm.

Rabat 4
White Hart Laferla Insurance 1

White Hart were looking to break their duck in this match and the Rabat custodian had to be alert early on, making a double save.

Both teams did not take advantage of two penalty corners awarded to them during a period of fast, flowing open play.

After Karl Tua missed a chance for White Hart, Jonathan Micallef shot Rabat ahead, pushing home from close range.

Two minutes into the second half, Matthew Buhagiar sent Rabat into a two-goal lead and Micallef then scored his second and his team’s third, finishing off a Charlot Antonelli assist.

Antonelli inserted his name on the scoresheet and David Agius grabbed White Hart’s only goal with the last hit of the match.

Standings