Watch: Mosta clinch Top Six spot with dramatic comeback but match marred by skirmishes

ŻABBAR ST. PATRICK 1-2 MOSTA
Diogo Tavares 63 (Ż); Matthew Bolanos 90+, Prince Emmanuel 90+ (M)

In a match overshadowed by late-game drama and on-field altercations, Mosta snatched a last-gasp victory over Żabbar St. Patrick’s with two stoppage-time goals, reversing a seemingly bleak situation and securing their place in the Top Six of the league’s Closing Round.

The encounter began under challenging weather conditions, with wind and rain complicating play, but it was Żabbar who initially threatened Mosta’s defence with a series of long-range efforts that kept goalkeeper David Akpan busy. 

Despite Żabbar’s persistence, it was Mosta who enjoyed more possession throughout the game.

The first half saw both teams exchange chances, with Żabbar’s Brian Gambarte and Junior Eke of Mosta missing opportunities to break the deadlock. 

Żabbar came closest to scoring before halftime when Jake Micallef’s header narrowly missed the target.

After the break, Żabbar introduced David Souza, whose presence immediately almost made an impact, with a towering header that finished inches wide. 

Past the hour mark, Diogo Tavares curled a precise shot past Akpan, putting Żabbar ahead and seemingly on course for a crucial victory.

Despite Mosta’s efforts to mount a comeback with strategic substitutions, Żabbar maintained their lead deep into stoppage time. 

However, the game took a dramatic turn as Mosta, sensing urgency, equalized through Matthew Bolanos from a corner-kick action.

Moments later, Prince Emmanuel capitalized on a swift counterattack to seal an improbable turnaround.

The match’s conclusion was marred by heated altercations involving players and staff members from both sides, escalating into confrontations both before and after the final whistle. 

The intensity spilled over to the extent that Żabbar’s substitute goalkeeper, Justin Haber, was shown a red card by the match official.

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Ultimately, Mosta’s resilience and ability to capitalize on late opportunities proved decisive, securing their place in the Top Six.

In contrast, Żabbar St Patrick, despite their spirited performance, will face Bottom Six football once again.