Action on the Balzan goal during last week’s final at the Corradino Pavilion. Photo: Jason Borg

Balzan FC claimed their second major honour of the 2012-13 futsal season on Friday after claiming the FXDD KO, organised for the first time by the Futsal Malta Association. In the final, they beat Hibs 6-3 in a hard-fought contest at the Corradino Pavilion.

Balzan had opened their campaign way back in September with the Super Cup after beating Lija Athletics for the title.

Balzan, currently leading the league standings and still unbeaten with only two games left before the play-offs, faced strong resistance from Hibernians.

In front of a record crowd, it was clearly evident from the initial stages that this was going to be a thriller. Balzan opened the score through Basil Emeka but the Paolites drew level just before half-time following a Cedric Sciberras goal.

The contest remained fairly balanced in the second half before Balzan regained the lead w a well-taken Florin Anton free-kick.

Hibs, however, again hit back and Boicho Marev levelled at 2-2.

Balzan had Nicola del Re sent off but they still opened a two-goal lead following goals by Glenn Bonello and Emeka.

With three minutes left, Hibs pulled one back through Sciberras with Balzan protesting heavily for a foul on keeper Reuben Grech.

Then, Balzan were awarded a controversial penalty, converted by Bonello, and they sealed their victory with another gem of a goal from Anton.

Balzan captain Christian Micallef was presented with the KO trophy from Fiona Soler, FXDD general manager, and Donald Spiteri, the FMA president.