Balzan 2 - St Andrews 1

In one of the most dramatic endings of the season, Balzan managed to take all three points home and keep their hopes of lifting their first ever Premier League title.

Balzan immediately took the initiative in the early minutes when Lydon Micallef had a disallowed goal for offside.

St Andrews threatened as defender Bong-won Che directed his header towards goal with goalkeeper Christian Cassar diverting into corner.

Dale Camilleri was the dangerous man on the following set-piece but his header sailed over the bar.

Oliver Spiteri’s team rued a glorious chance midway into the game when league top scorer Bojan Kaljevic hit wide in front of the goalkeeper.

In the second half, Balzan went all guns blazing and managed to break the deadlock on 63 minutes through Kaljevic.

Terence Agius whipped in an inviting free-kick and the Montenegrin came from behind the defender to net his 22nd goal of the season.

When Balzan were destined to victory five minutes from time, the match unleashed itself.

First, St Andrews were awarded a penalty when Cassar pulled down Camilleri but from the spot, Ivan Paz sent the ball over the bar.

On the 90th minute, Balzan were reduced to 10-man when Bruno was sent off after flooring Kyrian Nwoko in the box and from the resultant penalty, skipper Joseph Farrugia levelled matters.

With an upset looming, Balzan were still not yet done as Ryan Fenech initiated their last offensive threat.

He sent the ball towards da Silva Souza and the latter immediately lifted the ball towards Abdelkarim Nafti.

The former Valletta player sent a low-drive into the box with Alfred Effiong hitting weakly before the ball ended up in Serrano Valero's feet, with the defender sending Balzan's fans wild with his late goal.

 

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