Valletta clinch the BOV Super Cup

Valletta came into this match looking to sum up last season’s excellent campaign by winning the BOV Super Cup. On the other, Balzan experienced great disappointment during the previous season as they lost the Premier League during the latter stages of the competition. Further to this, they made a slow start to this season and currently find themselves eight points behind leaders Hibernians. In light of this, such match was also important for Balzan in order to win their first ever honour.

Danilo Doncic's men made a great start to the match as they forged ahead after just nine minutes. Following a cross by Miguel Angel Alba from the right, Michael Johnson placed the ball inside his own net.

The Citizens threatened Balzan again on the 29th minute. Alba fired a shot from a free-kick that ended slightly over.

Balzan hit back and equalised on the 37th minute. Alex Da Paixao Alves received the ball on the right side of the penalty area and unleashed a shot that gave Henry Bonello no chance.

During the remaining minutes, Valletta held the initiative, but could not penetrate Balzan’s defence as the first half ended in a 1-1 draw.

Both teams cancelled each other out during the second half as the game was being played at a very slow pace. As a matter of fact, the chances on goal remained scarce.

In the only opportunity of the second half, Valletta regained their lead on the 77th minute. Mario Fontanella was on the receiving end of Alba’s cross and headed the ball past Steve Sultana from close range.

Balzan failed to react and thus Valletta’s lead was never threatened as they won their first honour of the season.

Valletta starting line-up: Henry Bonello, Jonathan Caruana, Steve Borg, Santiago Malano, Matteo Picciolo, Enmy Manuel Pena Beltre, Ibrahim Raed Saleh, Rowen Muscat, Miguel Angel Alba, Bojan Kaljevic, Mario Fontanella

Balzan starting line-up: Steve Sultana, Justin Grioli, Dale Camilleri, Nenad Slijivic, Alex Da Paixao Alves, Michael Johnson, Alfred Effiong, Uros Ljubomirac, Ivan Bozovic, Elkin Serrano Valero, Carlos Eduardo De Fiori Mendes

Referee: Trustin Farrugia Cann

Assistant Referees: Alan Camilleri, Christopher Francalanza

Fourth Official: Stefan Pace