Champions Nadur Youngsters and runners-up Kerċem Ajax will contest the BOV GFA Cup final on Sunday after recording identical 2-1 wins in the semi-finals over Xagħra United and Sannat Lions respectively.

Xagħra were the underdogs but came into this semi-final high in confidence after avoiding relegation with a 5-3 win over Għajnsielem in a play-off.

The Blues surprised Nadur with their aggressive approach and opened the scoring on 19 minutes through Joseph Vella.

Nadur staged an immediate reaction to turn the result in their favour before half-time following goals by Anthony Portelli (24) and Milos Stojanovic (32).

After the break, Nadur might have increased their lead but a Portelli shot hit the crossbar. Xagħra went close to forcing extra-time late on through a fine free-kick by Jason Portelli that ended just wide.

Kerċem found it more difficult than expected to see off Sannat.

The Lions created the early chances through Josiah Buttigieg, whose effort hit the post, and Sunday Baala. The latter had his effort turned away for a corner by keeper Courtney Mercieca.

However, quick goals from Malcolm Vella and Stoyko Sakaliev put Kerċem in the driving seat.

Sannat pulled one back through Daniel Borg just before half-time and were unlucky not to draw level five minutes into the second half when Baala’s shot came off the Ajax woodwork.

Kerċem could have sealed the issue but an Andrew Mizzi effort came hit the upright and Vella’s overhead kick finished just over.

Next month, Nadur and Kerċem will also contest the GFA Super Cup, the last honour at stake in the Gozitan season.