Valletta - 4, Tarxien - 2

Champions Valletta kicked off their campaign in style as they eased past Tarxien Rainbows 4-2 at the National Stadium this evening.

Alfred Effiong put the champions on their way on 15 minutes the Nigerian profited from a poor control from team-mate Denni to round Tarxien keeper David Cassar and deposit the ball into an empty net.

Tarxien came back strongly and three minutes later they drew level. It was Daniel Mariano Bueno who picked up possession just outside the area and the Brazilian let fly an unstoppable drive that gave no chance to Valletta goalkeeper Andrew Hogg.

Valletta doubled their lead on 40 minutes when Ian Azzopardi won possession in midfield and quickly released Effiong who fired a low drive past Cassar.

Tarxien tried to hit back but it was Valletta who wrapped up the points on 71 minutes when Effiong turned provider with an exquisite cross towards William Barbosa who planted a header into the far corner.

Ther Rainbows did manage to pull a goal back six minutes from time when they won a free-kick from a central position and Everton unleashed a powerful low shot that rolled into the net.

However, it was Valletta who had the final say as with Tarxien pushing forward for an equaliser, the Citizens struck. In a quick break, Effiong released Denni on the right and the Brazilian sprinted into the area before placing the ball past Cassar.

Alfred Effiong was voted as the BOV Player of the Match.