Floriana bounce back from derby defeat with win over Marsaxlokk

Floriana bounced back from their derby defeat to Valletta in some style when they overcame previous leaders Marsaxlokk 2-1 at the Tony Bezzina Stadium.

It was a convincing performance from the Greens, who managed to assert their dominance throughout the match and provided the right response to their tough defeat against their fierce rivals.

The Greens were up and running and after eight minutes Marsaxlokk goalkeeper Christoffer Mafoumbi, who was facing his former club, did well to keep out Jake Grech’s shot.

Another former Floriana player, who was facing his former club, Ulises Arias almost fired the Southerners ahead but was denied by Guilherme Cioletti.

But Floriana remained the better side and twice came close to an opener when first Iago Mendonca’s header was blocked by Mafoumbi and then Federico Varela’s header flashed wide.

Floriana deservedly took the lead on 40 minutes when Mohammed Jah embarked on a surging run and beat Mafoumbi with a low drive.

The Greens should have doubled their lead on 55 minutes when Joao Teixeira was through on goal but he incredibly fired over from an angled position.

Floriana doubled their lead when they were awarded a free-kick, and Jake Grech’s inswinger flew past Mafoumbi.

Marsaxlokk did pull a goal back in stoppage time when Owen Spiteri inadvertently cleared the ball into the net in an attempt to avert the danger.

But that was too little too late for Marsaxlokk, as Floriana held on for the win.