Match Report: (courtesy of www.gozofootball.net)

Munxar Falcons recovered from a difficult start in the new season and obtained their first victory in the championship in their match against Oratory Youths.  The victory for Munxar matured in the last part of the second period as they took advantage of an extra player on the field.  Oratory found some difficulties in the first part of the match, but recovered as time passed by.  However, they lost composure and concentration as they ended with a player less on the field and never seemed in a position to recover the deficit.

Munxar came out more aggressive and held some pressure over their opponents.  In the 3^rd minute an attempt by William Cassar following a melee in the area was blocked by Oratory’s defense.  Munxar were again dangerous on 20 minutes through a low shot by Mario Azzopardi, which passed behind goalie Franklin Vella but was cleared off the line by Andrew Zammit.  Minutes later a lob by Joseph Cordina ended wide.  The Youths replied in the 31^st minute through an angled shot by Kevin Grech following a throw-in that missed the target.  Oratory gained confidence and on 40 minutes Joshua Cassar concluded badly from a good position.  Seconds from half time a long ranged shot by Francesco Cini ended just wide.

After the break the Youths tried to maintain the momentum but Munxar were dangerous on 51 minutes through a direct free kick by Joseph Cordina that was saved by goalie Vella.  Three minutes later the Youths compromised their match when they were reduced to ten players as Kevin Grech was sent off for dissent.  Munxar took immediate advantage and opened the score in the 57^th minute.  Daniel Pace unmarked Mario Azzopardi in the area, the latter dribbled his direct opponent and placed in goal with a low shot.  Oratory’s reaction was sterile and Munxar were now finding more space in counter attacks.  On 65 minutes Oratory’s goalie Franklin Vella made a good save to turn in corner a long ranged shot by Shaun Attard.  The same goalkeeper was well placed in the 77^th minute to save an attempt by William Cassar after receiving from Mario Azzopardi.  In the 81^st minute Munxar had substitute goalkeeper Angelo Parnis sent off from the bench for remarks towards the referee.  Munxar ensured from the three points eight minutes from time.  William Cassar entered the area from the left flank, had his shot blocked by goalie Vella and placed into an empty goal from the rebound.  Two minutes form time goalie Vella saved a good effort by substitute Donald Borg following across by Mario Azzopardi.    Referee: Paul Apap