Valletta back to winning ways with clinical display

Valletta were back to winning ways in the YoHealth Malta Premier League as they scored a goal in each half to see off Gżira United 2-0 at the National Stadium.

The Citizens came into the match still reeling from their disappointing 1-0 defeat to Birkirkara and were determined to produce the right response with victory over Għira United.

Although it was far from a vintage performance from the Citizens, Thane Micallef’s troops produced a clinical performance to bring home three important points that lifts them closer to the top positions in the standings.

The first half was devoid of action, with scoring chances few and far between.

Gżira threatened midway through the first half when Brooklyn Borg picked up a short clearance inside the area, but his firm volley was well blocked by Valletta goalkeeper Adilson Maringa.

 However, it was Valletta who struck on 39 minutes when Ahmed Adebayo exchanged the ball with Yuri Messias, and the Nigerian saw his effort blocked by the onrushing Colombo. However, the City forward was quick to react and head the rebound into the net.

Gżira tried to respond and had an effort by Stasa Bastic finishing just over with the last kick of the first half.

After the break, Valletta were off to a flier as on 50 minutes, Sava Radic cleared the ball upfield from a corner and Adebayo quickly nodded the ball into the path of the sprinting Andrea Zammit, who coolly chipped the ball over the onrushing Colombo.

Gżira were rattled, and four minutes later, Maxuell Maia headed wide from inside the area.

However, the damage had already been done as Valletta continued to protect their advantage in the closing stages.

In stoppage time, Brandon Paiber almost added a third when his inswinger hit the bar.