The final matchday of the YoHealth Malta Premier Closing Round Opening Phase provided a lot of drama as traditional big guns Birkirkara and Sliema Wanderers found themselves in the Bottom 6.
On the other hand, Valletta and Naxxar Lions joined Floriana, Ħamrun Spartans, Marsaxlokk and Gżira United into the Top 6 as the battle for the Premier League title is set to intensify in the coming weeks.
Here is a roundup of all the action from Matchday 27 by SportsDesk.
Naxxar Lions FC (2 – 1) Hibernians FC
Naxxar Lions completed their stunning run in the Closing Round when they stunned Hibernians 2-1 to ensure their berth in the Top Six.
Louis Pahama put Naxxar ahead before Vinicius Baiano doubled their lead from the penalty spot.
Kurt Shaw pulled a goal back for Hibs, but it was not enough as the Lions held on for the win.
Marsaxlokk FC (1 – 1) Valletta FC
Valletta were the other team to make it into the Top Six when they picked up the point needed following a 1-1 draw against Marsaxlokk.
Ulisses Arias fired Marsaxlokk ahead but Valletta quickly responded with Andrea Zammit levelling matters and ease any fears for the City fans.
Birkirkara FC (2 – 2) Floriana FC
Leaders Floriana were held to a 2-2 draw against Birkirkara.
Kenan Dervisagic put Floriana ahead before Kemar Reid pulled Birkirkara level.
A Jake Grech penalty restored Floriana’s lead but it was their former player Jan Busuttil who earned Birkirkara a point with his late equaliser.
Sliema Wanderers FC (2 – 1) Gżira United FC
Sliema Wanderers took the bragging rights in the derby against Gżira United when securing a 2-1 win.
Uros Djuranovic fired the Blues ahead before Roko Prsa made it 2-0.
A Henrique Murillo own goal handed Gżira United a lifeline but it was not to be as the Blues held on for the win.
Mosta FC (2 – 1) Ħamrun Spartans FC
Mosta stunned champions Ħamrun Spartans as they secured a 2-1 victory.
Nevin Portelli was Mosta’s hero when he bagged a fine brace.
Blessing Ekele’s late goal was not enough for the Spartans to avoid their first defeat in the Closing Round.
Tarxien Rainbows FC (1 – 1) Żabbar St. Patrick FC
Tarxien Rainbows and Żabbar St Patrick had to settle for a point following a 1-1 draw.
Patrick Schmidt put the Rainbows ahead but it was Żabbar who had the final say as Mario Fontanella equalised deep into stoppage time.
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