Balzan needed extra-time to see off Pembroke 3-1 and book their place in this year’s FA Trophy final against Sliema Wanderers.

Things had looked tough on Balzan who found themselves a goal behind after 32 minutes when Siraj Arab put Ariel Laudisi clear and the Italian striker hit a low drive that had the better of Balzan goalkeeper Ivan Janjusevic.

Balzan were rattled and they almost conceded a second goal in stoppage time when Alex Cini picked Gustavo Villalobos inside the area and the American midfielder saw his shot parried away by Janjusevic.

On the restart, Balzan dominated much of the proceedings as they look to get back into the tie.

Five minutes into the second half, Kaljevic should have done better when being picked by Da Silva Souza but the Montenegrin forward miscued his shot from an inviting position.

On 68 minutes, Zoran Levnaic had a golden chance to double his team advantage when he was awarded room and space to connect to Micallef’s corner-kick but he headed wide.

The closest Balzan came to an equaliser was on 76 minutes when Da Silva Souza’s stinging drive came off the bar.

Balzan finally drew level 10 minutes from time. They were awarded a free-kick on the right and Pedrinho was somehow kept out by Muscat but in came Da Silva Souza who stabbed home the rebound to send the game into extra-time.
Balzan were on a roll now and on 98 minutes they took the lead.

Effiong sent a dipping cross towards Kaljevic who headed past Muscat to send the Balzan fans into raptures.

Pembroke tried to fight back but it was Balzan who added a third goal a minute from time.

Effiong was floored in the area by Alex Cini and Pedrinho made no mistake from the spot.