Malta round-up: Sliema move closer to title

Sliema Wanderers FC moved a step closer to a first Maltese Premier League title in seven years with a dramatic 3-2 win against nearest challengers Birkirkara FC that gave the leaders an eight-point cushion at the top of the table.

Cool finish
In an entertaining game, the home side took the lead after just three minutes, as Danilo Doncic's left-wing cross found Orosco Anoman, who comfortably beat Birkirkara goalkeeper Justin Haber. However, Sliema needed a goalline clearance from Kris Laferla from Lino Galea's effort to preserve their narrow lead.

Quick recovery
It was 2-0 after 56 minutes, as Noel Turner’s cross deceived Haber and Doncic was on hand to head his 18th goal of the season. Birkirkara rallied strongly, however, and pulled a goal back five minutes later as Chucks Nwoko headed past Sliema goalkeeper Murphy Akanji, and it was 2-2 21 minutes from time, as Galea’s cross was headed beyond Akanji by George Mallia.

Stoppage-time winner
However, Sliema refused to give up hope, and secured all three points in added time, as Dancic created a simple opportunity for Joe Brincat, who made no mistake from close range.

Goalless draw
Champions Hibernians FC were forced to settle for a goalless draw at Valletta in the other match played in the championship pool on Saturday. However, Hibernians had chances to secure all three points, with Adrian Mifsud heading just wide from a Ndubisi Chuckunyere cross on the hour, while substitute Terence Scerri also went close, but saw his final-minute header well saved by Sean Sullivan. Both sides remained on 22 points, 13 behind the leaders.

Matches postponed
The games on Sunday, between Pietà Hotspurs FC and Marsaxlokk FC in the championship group and Floriana FC and Mosta FC in the relegation pool were both postponed due to waterlogged pitches.