APS Bank Women’s Knock-out Final

Aloysians Veneziani Croissant 18

Kavallieri Kia Motors 24

(H.T. 3-11)

Kavallieri proved to be righteous winners of the Knock-out competition this season as they managed to overcome Aloysians’ courageous comeback. Aloysians looked like they started off on the right foot as they scored just after a minute. However, Kavallieri had other plans in mind and against everyone’s expectations they scored a thrilling nine consecutive goals to leave Aloysians stuck in their tracks.

Having an eight goal lead in the second half meant a great deal to Kavallieri however Aloysians tried to fight back and cause an upset.

The second half was by far more spectacular as both teams provided better handball. Aloysians kept on piling the pressure but Natasha Papric and Sue Nygren made sure that their goals see Kavallieri through to the final whistle. Natasha Papric was the Kavallieri’s top scorer with nine goals while Brenda Camilleri hit eight for Aloysians.

Player of the Match: Natasha Papric (Kavallieri Kia Motors)

APS Bank Men’s Knock-out Final

Kavallieri Kia Motors 28

Aloysians Prominent 23

(H.T. 14-13)

In a close encounter, Kavallieri took everyone by surprise by beating Aloysians who were aspiring to win the double. The match was highly entertaining, especially in the first half were both teams were constantly trying to extend their lead. Kavallieri started off well as they scored three consecutive goals. Aloysians replied with five consecutive goals, but soon after, Kavallieri scored another three to tie the score at 6-6. Kavallieri had another positive run as they scored four without reply. Kavallieri were headed to a four-goal lead by half time, but Aloysians had other plans in mind and reduced the deficit to one goal.

The second half was as balanced as the first where both teams were trying to get those extra goals to extend their lead. Orlando Bonnici was having a good performance for Kavallieri as the pivot was giving trouble to Aloysians’ rearguard. On the other hand, Roberto Ragonesi was Aloysians’ major threat in attack. With just a few minutes left on the clock and the score tied at 22-22, Kavallieri had their final say on the match were they scored five consecutive goals to crush all hopes for Aloysians. Aloysians were left stranded and had to concede defeat as Kavallieri win their first and only cup this season. Orlando Bonnici scored six goals for Kavallieri while Roberto Ragonesi also scored six for Aloysians.

Player of the match: Keith Bartolo (Kavallieri Kia Motors)