Luxol are the new Gatorade Premier League champions after beating Balzan 4-3 in the second match from the futsal final series.

Balzan, the outgoing champions, struggled to find their rhythm but improved in the second half only to fall just short in their bid to force a decider after losing the opening leg 4-3.

The team from St Andrew’s broke the deadlock early on when Peter Pullicino cut inside from the right before freeing William Barbosa who fired home the opener.

Luxol doubled the score shortly afterwards after Barbosa poked home from close distance from a Dean Gera delivery.

Two goals down, Balzan tried to hit back. Frane Despotovic met Slobodan Janjic’s pass and let loose a fierce shot that left the keeper stranded – 2-1.

Before half-time, Barbosa was unlucky to see his effort hit the upright.

Balzan began the second half in brisk mode and Glenn Bonello’s attempt at goal finished in the back of the net to restore parity at two-all.

Luxol kept their composure and in no time they regained their advantage when Gera’s piledriver surprised Christian Cassar to make it 3-2.

The goal confused Balzan’s plans as Cassar avoided a classic own goal by Despotovic whose erratic low clearance was pawed away by the alert keeper.

Luxol profited from the situation and scored a fourth goal when Florin Anton led a quick counter break to send Barbosa through to convert.

It was now Balzan’s turn to pile the pressure. Janjic darted past his direct marker and slotted the ball past the onrushing Grech to revive Balzan’s hopes.

As the minutes trickled by, Balzan upped their pressure, forcing a couple of corners and introducing Marev and Despotovic as flying keepers.

However, their efforts foundered on the solid Luxol rearguard who preserved their lead till the end.

High-ranking officials from the Futsal Malta Association and representatives from Gatorade presented the trophies and medals to the winning team.

Luxol and Balzan will face each other again on Friday, this time with the Gatorade KO Cup at stake.