Malta round-up: Hamrun lose again

Hamrun Spartans FC are yet to win a point in the Maltese Premier League 'championship pool' after losing 1-0 to Valletta FC, their fourth successive defeat.

Poor discipline
Hamrun were unlucky as early as the first minute when Stefan Zahra's effort hit the post, but Valletta's response was quick and sharp. Karl Bonnici's cross was met with perfection by Daniel Theuma, who rose beautifully to head the champions into the lead. Midway through the first half Argentinian Cesar Paiber was dismissed for protesting but no further goals were scored.

Pietà confirm status
Pietà Hotspurs FC confirmed their domination of the 'relegation pool' by comfortably defeating Lija Athletic FC, the bottom club, 2-0. Two goals from their top marksman, Malcolm Licari, secured all three points for Pietà, who are now virtually assured of top division football next season. Licari opened the scoring in the 26th minute when he touched in a fine cross from Bulgarian import Metodi Metodiev to put his side ahead.

One-sided
It was Licari again who scored the second, and his eleventh of the season, finishing off a fine move between Kevin Mamo and Jamie Pace. Pietà continued to dominate, hitting the woodwork three times through Metodiev, Mamo and Pace in the process. 

Facing the drop
Pietà have now overtaken Marsa FC at the top of the second category pool. Lija remain anchored to the bottom and second division football is clearly looming for them next season.