Close win puts Lions four points clear at the top

Sannat Lions registered a close victory over relegation strugglers Qala St Joseph to increase their lead at the top of the standings to four points. Sannat Lions have 24 points from 11 matches with SK Victoria Wanderers second on 20.

The Lions had to ward off some Qala pressure during the first half as the Maroons, with Eric Nkwankwo and Mario Mifsud very much in evidence, were the more adventurous team.

However, Sannat scored the decisive goal in first-half stoppage time when Secco floored Fernando de Andrade in the box. The referee awarded a penalty and the same De Andrade made no mistake from the spot.

The Saints tried to hit back after the break but Sannat were well in control and their goalkeeper was rarely, if ever, tested.

The Lions could have made sure of the points on various occasions through attempts by De Andrade and John Camilleri but the Qala keeper kept his side in contention with a series of fine saves.

The match between Għajnsielem and Victoria Hotspurs produced five goals with the former coming back from two goals down to land victory.

The Blacks held territorial supremacy at first but failed to find a way through. On the other hand, the Hotspurs had a prudent approach and opened the scoring on 33 minutes thanks to new signing Hanus Martin. The Czech placed in goal from close distance following a cross from the left by Noel Borg.

Għajnsielem saw more of the ball after the break but the Hotspurs doubled the score with another Martin goal on 64 minutes.

Many expected the Blacks to throw in the towel at this stage but they produced a determined reaction to turn the game around.

Alex Viana reduced the arrears and Charles Mercieca made it 2-2 with a header from a free-kick with 21 minutes to go.

Brazilian Viana was Għajnsielem's source of inspiration as he scored the third goal on 79 minutes after being released by Joseph Attard.

Għajnsielem are third in the table with 15 points from 11 matches.