Malta round-up: Floriana stun Birkirkara

Floriana FC secured a surprise 2-1 win against Birkirkara FC in Saturdays's first 'championship pool' games.

Floriana penalty
Having only made it to the 'championship pool' via penalty-kicks in a midweek play-off against Marsa FC, Floriana were not expected to create any problems for title challengers Birkirkara but four minutes from half-time, Floriana went ahead through Etienne Barbara's penalty.

Mixed fortunes for Holland
Birkirkara drew level three minutes into the second half, when Floriana defender Craig Schembri brought down Michael Cutajar in the penalty area. Birkirkara captain Antoine Zahra scored from the penalty spot to level the scores, but Floriana scored the winner in the 80th minute as Jonathan Holland headed home George Mallia's cross - although the striker was subsequently given his second yellow card for being excessive with his goal celebrations.

Late drama
Two minutes into injury time, Birkirkara were awarded a second penalty when Floriana defender Risa Cangorisa brought down Mark Anthony Bonnici in the area but this time Justin Haber in the Floriana goal saved Zahra's kick.

Hibernians go top
Hibernians FC regained top spot in the table with a 1-1 draw against champions Valletta FC in the second 'championship pool' fixture. Gilbert Agius put the champions in the lead with a powerful half volley, which left Hibernians goalkeeper Mario Muscat stranded in mid-air. 

Pullicino strikes back
Hibernians equalised in the second half when Ndubisi Chuckunyere's cross from the right found Peter Pullicino, who controlled well before blasting the ball past a helpless Ernest Barry.