Ħamrun Spartans held by resilient Żabbar St Patrick

Ħamrun Spartans dropped two precious points as they were held by Żabbar St Patrick to a goalless draw at the National Stadium.

It was a frustrating outing for the Malta champions who dominated possession but struggled to break down a resolute Żabbar side who played the last 20 minutes with a player less following the dismissal of goalkeeper Manuel Djalo.

For Żabbar it was an encouraging start for new coach Gilbert Agius who led his new team to their first point in the Closing Round, a result which will provide a major confidence boost in their bid to avoid the drop.

The first half saw Ħamrun Spartans enjoy the majority of possession but Żabbar were dangerous with their fast transition.

It was Żabbar who created the first chance on ten minutes when Majok Ayom made space for himself on the edge of the area, but his shot finished just over the bar.

Ħamrun were struggling to create chances, and they had to wait until the 31st minute to threaten the Żabbar goal.

Shaisen Attard burst inside the area but saw his shot saved by Żabbar goalkeeper Manuel Djalo.

Seven minutes later, Żabbar threatened again when Brian Gambarte moved in space but his firm drive finished just wide.

A minute later, Ħamrun were forced to make their first change as Rafael Compri suffered an injury and was replaced by Emerson Marcelina.

After the break, Ħamrun tried to step up their gear, and their cause was boosted on 64 minutes when the Żabbar goalkeeper Djalo floored Jonny on the edge of the area and was shown a straight red card.

Here, Ħamrun started to pile more pressure but still they failed to trouble Żabbar’s reserve goalkeeper Ignacio Colombo.

The Spartans came close eight minutes from time when Jonny picked Eder inside the area but his header was somehow kept out by Colombo.

The Argentine custodian was again the protagonist when he pushed away Attard’s cross-shot as Żabbar held for a crucial point.