Tarxien reach FA Trophy semis

Tarxien 2 - Balzan 0

Tarxien Rainbows booked their place in the semi-finals of the FA Trophy with a deserved win over First Division high-flyers Balzan Youths.

Having established a 2-0 lead in the first half thanks to Anderson Ribeiro from the spot as well as a Denni's close-range finish, Tarxien proved to have too much defensive nous for Balzan as they fought back well in the second half.

Balzan worked hard throughout and frustrated the Rainbows for long periods but ultimately lacked the quality to truly threaten a premier league side or hold out against their more incisive attacking play.

In the 14th minute, Jonathan Francica was penalised for shirt-tugging Denni in the box and Anderson Ribeiro stepped up to slot home from the spot, putting Tarxien ahead.

Despite the setback, Balzan maintained their work-rate and almost drew level when Shead dribbled his way to the opponents' box, only to shot high over the bar on 22 minutes.

But Tarxien always looked the more threatening going forward through and it was no surprise when Denni made it 2-0 after 35 minutes, collecting a free-kick from David Camilleri and firing the ball in from close-range.