Optimism in Valletta’s title chances has risen significantly after Birkirkara’s slip-up to Hibs but midfielder Edmond Agius insists that the Whites are only focusing on their games.
“Every game is very important at this stage of the season,” Agius said.
“We’re only looking at our games and trying to win all of them. We know that to become champions, we can’t afford to drop points.”
Agius emerged as Valletta’s hero on Saturday as his sizzling drive on the stroke of time secured a vital 3-1 win after Lydon Micallef’s goal had raised the prospect of a Balzan fightback.
“Balzan are a compact side,” Agius said.
“They turned in a good performance against us but I think we deserved to win because we produced the better chances.”
When Valletta slipped five points behind Birkirkara following a 2-2 draw with Mosta last week, many felt that the Citizens’ title chances were as good as over but Agius stressed that City never lost hope.
“The desire and willpower to win the league has never waned,” Agius said.
“The draw against Mosta was a setback and everyone was gutted after the game but we kept believing knowing that we still had to play two twice against Birkirkara.”
While the Stripes have a full week to prepare for Sunday’s cliffhanger, Valletta must attend to the important business of a U*Bet FA Trophy semi-final against Division One side Gżira United tomorrow before shifting their focus to their clash with the leaders.
“This is a hectic period for us with four games in 11 days,” Agius, 27, said.
“We are concentrating on our cup semi-final against Gżira because the Trophy is also an important objective.
“We will only start thinking about the league match against Birkirkara after the semi-final on Wednesday (tomorrow).”
Known for his combative qualities and work ethic, Agius looks to have re-established himself as a regular for Valletta despite the strong competition for places.
“From a personal perspective, I feel that I’m going through a bright spell but I don’t really like to talk about myself,” Agius said.
“It’s also thanks to my team-mates that I’m doing well. I always give my 100 per cent but then it’s down to the coach to decide what’s best for the team.”