A bout during the International Open.

Maltese wrestlers had a field day at the International Open held recently, winning a spate of gold, silver and bronze medals as they held the upperhand over opponents from Northern Ireland and Wales.

Adam Vella confirmed his no.1 status after winning two bouts in the 60kg category.

Against Damon Arzu (Wales), Vella was in control throughout, gaining successive points to claim victory by superiority.

Norick Koczarian proved a tougher opponent but Vella calmly took the first session 2-0 and went on to win the bout on points to clinch the gold medal.

Veteran brothers Abraham and George Vassallo also won their respective categories.

Abraham was the winner of the 84kg class with a flawless display. He emerged victorious over Francy Rossfrombe, pinning down the Welshman to score decisive points.

In the second bout, Vassallo was trailing 1-0 to Hugh McCloskey, of Northern Ireland. After the interval, the latter opted to defend his slender lead with Vassallo striking a slick move to claim two points and seal the title.

George Vassallo’s march in the 74kg category started with a convincing win over Matthew Eynon, of Wales. He then brushed aside Mark Connor’s challenge, felling his rival from Northern Ireland.

The final provided some nail-biting moments. Vassallo raced into the lead but his opponent was equally up to the task.

Vassallo established a three-point lead as the second session saw fortunes sway from one end to the other before Vassallo’s experience paid off as he won the bout 14-11.

Elsewhere, Gary Giordimaina maintained his momentum by easily winning the 54kg Cadet category. He won three bouts in all.

Relative newcomer Benji Micallef was the surprise winner of the junior 84kg class after having the better of Mel McTeeggart (Northern Ireland) and Samwel Portelli.

On his part, Mark Galea had an excellent showing in the 63kg event for juniors.

In fact, he only needed a handful of seconds to dispose of Jordan Powell (Wales) who could do very little when pinned down to the mat.

Seasoned wrestlers Aidan Buhagiar and Andrea Saliba came up against stubborn opponents at the Open and both had to settle for the runner-up spot.

Malta’s other silver medals were won by Nico Zarb and Deon Sant while Jack Attard, Graig Farrugia, Nathanian Buttigieg, Matthew Azzopardi and David Galea were third in their class.

The Maltese team was under the guidance of national coach Jesmond Giordimaina.