Valletta’s second-half fightback leaves Naxxar Lions reeling

Valletta produced an enthralling second-half comeback as they came from 2-0 down to see off Naxxar Lions 4-2.

It was a game of two halves, with Naxxar Lions enjoying the edge in the opening 45 minutes, where they managed to race into a two-goal lead.

But their failure to capitalise on the chances they created late in the first half came back to haunt them after the break.

In fact, Valletta grew in stature in the second half and three goals in the space of 12 minutes helped them to turn the match around and join Ħamrun Spartans in second place on seven points.

Naxxar were off to a flying start as they took just three minutes to lead.

Joao Victor sent a low cross, and Emiliano Montero connected at the far post to lash home.

Valletta looked rattled, and they almost drew level minutes later when new signing Ahmed Adebayo picked Thaylor Aldama, and the City winger was denied by a fine save by Matthias Debono.

However, it was Naxxar who doubled their lead on 31 minutes when Vitinho picked Pahama inside the area, and the Frenchman immediately teed up Victor, who curled the ball past Maringa.

Three minutes later, Valletta protested for a penalty when Naxxar defender Gustavo Goncalves looked to have handled the ball inside the area but the referee waved play on.

But Valletta struck on 36 minutes when Yannick Yankam sped inside the area and quickly set up Adebayo, who fired home.

Naxxar had two clear chances to restore their lead when Rosiel found Montero who shot straight at Maringa from a few metres out.

Then, Maringa did well to save Vinicius shot and from the rebound Victor tried to chip the ball over the City goalkeeper but hit the upright.

After the break, Valletta took control of proceedings and their efforts were rewarded as they struck twice in the space of three minutes.

On 56 minutes, Adebayo failed to control a long pass, and the ball fell to Yankam, who immediately passed it back to his team-mate, who fired home.

Naxxar were still coming to terms with their blow when Valletta struck again.

Yuri Messias produced a moment of brilliance when he hit a thumping drive that gave Debono no chance.

There were more woes for Naxxar as they conceded a fourth goal on 64 minutes.

In a lightning transition, Aldama broke through but was upended by Goncalves inside the area and the referee pointed to the spot.

Messias stepped up to beat Debono with a cheeky paneka and make it 4-2.