Malta round-up: Victory eludes Valletta

Dengaky denies Valletta 
In the only championship pool game at the National stadium, Valletta took a first-half lead through Chris Oretan. However, his intelligent finish was the only thing that got past Hamrun goalkeeper Daniel Dengaky. And it was thanks to his excellence that Hamrun were able to draw level when Mauro Brincat scored with a perfectly executed free-kick after the restart.

European chances hit 
This was Valletta's third match without a victory and their hopes of second place and UEFA Cup qualification look slimmer by the week. They have been European regulars for the last 13 years, yet their only route to continental competition now seems to be the Maltese Trophy.

Liga lifted 
In the relegation pool, leaders Pieta' Hotspurs FC surprisingly went down to bottom club Lija Athletic FC. A mediocre game was settled by Ilir Pelinku's goal which gave Lija their third win of the season.