The first programme from the third round of this season’s GFA Division One saw leaders Nadur Youngsters cruise to an easy 5-1 win over Xagħra United to increase their lead over second-placed Kerċem Ajax to nine points.

The match, the only fixture from the top flight last weekend, was quite eventful with three players sent off and a penalty miss, apart from the six goals.

Nadur took a deserved two-goal lead with a brace from Claudio Antunes before Xagħra were reduced to nine players just before half-time.

Michael Bezzina was sent off for a foul on Milos Stojanovic and the referee also showed a red card to Xagħra’s Arthur Farrugia and coach Noel Sultana for excessive protests.

The second half was a one-sided affair as the Youngsters added three more goals. Joseph Portelli made it 3-0 after the hour mark and Antunes completed his hat-trick five minutes later.

Nadur scored their fifth on 77 minutes through skipper Anthony Portelli.

However, they ended the match on a sour note as Charles Mercieca was dismissed for a second bookable offence after flooring Blues’ player John Camilleri in the box.

From the penalty, Camilleri saw his shot saved by substitute goalkeeper Victor Agius.

Xagħra did score a consolation goal on 87 minutes through a low drive by Maurice Hongla. Just before the final whistle, Alex Simoncic came close for Nadur but his fine strike came off the post.

Division Two

Undisputed league leaders Oratory Youths obtained a 5-0 win over Żebbuġ Rovers for their 12th victory in 13 matches.

Daniel Bartolo (35), Frank Attard (43), Shaun Attard (78, 85) and Johann Attard (82) scored the goals for the Youths who need just three points from their last five matches to make sure of promotion.

In another match, Għajnsielem maintained their runners-up chances with a 3-0 win over St Lawrence Spurs.

The goals for the Blacks came from Joseph Attard (58), Kenny Hili (60) and Joseph Azzopardi (90).