Marsa and Naxxar through to last eight

Marsa FC and Naxxar Lions FC have joined Birkirkara FC, Valletta FC and Hibernians FC in the quarter-finals of the Maltese Trophy after registering comfortable wins over Rabat Ajax FC and Lija Athletic FC respectively.

Stefanovic opener
Premier League relegation pool leaders Marsa had to wait until the 62nd minute to breach a resolute Rabat rearguard and take the lead. Igor Stefanovic netted the first goal, before Ridha Dardouri doubled six minutes later.  Brazilian Fabio do Nascimento scored the third five minutes from full time and it was left to Brian Bonnici to complete a convincing 4-0 victory over the first division club just before the final whistle.

Heavy defeat
In the second game at the National Stadium, relegated Lija's losing streak continued as they went down 5-1 to fellow relegation pool side Naxxar. Lija took a surprise lead after 18 minutes when Alan Tabone scored from the penalty spot. However, Naxxar soon took control of the game and drew level through Victor Bellia on the half-hour mark. The Lions went ahead with a goal from Daniel Nwoke six minutes later, before Victor Bellia made it 3-1 and a brace from Daniel Bogdanovic in the 68th and 73rd minute rounded-off the scoring.

Remaining ties
Next week Mosta FC face Hamrun Spartans FC, whilst Pietà Hotspurs FC take on Floriana FC for the two remaining quarter-final places.