Xuereb brace spearheads Swieqi to Kirkop win

Swieqi United chalked up their first three points of the 2020/2021 BOV Women’s League after defeating Kirkop United 4-0, in their second outing of the season.

The Oranges were at the back of a 2-0 loss at the hands of champions Birkirkara in their season opener and were eager to get back on track, profiting from the Stripes’ absence who were serving a bye this week.

Malta international Emma Xuereb scored the first and fourth goal for Swieqi to grab an important brace that earned Keith Gouder’s side three valuable points.

For this game, coach Gouder handed a start to newcomers goalkeeper Jodie Attard and fullback Andy Mizzi, alongside national team player Shona Zammit who was starting her second straight match.

Kirkop, on their part, had Rodianne Zerafa in their starting formation – last week’s protagonist with four goals in their curtain raiser against Mtarfa, last week.

Xuereb opened the score for Swieqi when she pounced on a short clearance by Kirkop goalkeeper Sharon Constantino to slot the ball into empty net, in the first half.

Swieqi made sure of the win with two quickfire goals after the break through Dorianne Theuma, from the penalty spot, and Jade Flask’s low drive moments later.

In the closing stages of the game, Xuereb struck a fourth for Swieqi.

Mġarr lead, Mosta win

Meanwhile, Mġarr United took top spot with six points after their second consecutive win – 3-0 over Raiders Għargħur, who were playing their first game of the season.

Forward Francesca Chircop grabbed another brace and captain Brenda Borg scored the other goal as both players have now scored four goals in two games.

Elsewhere, Mosta secured their first victory of the new campaign after a 4-0 win over Mtarfa, who are still looking for their first points of the season.

New signing Jessica Farrugia Cross, Macedonian Simona Krstanoska, Shania Borg and Kylie Pantalleresco were the scorers for the Blues.

Photo: Stephen Gatt