Sliema Wanderers coach Edward Aquilina was satisfied with the draw against Birkirkara obtained by that last-gasp equaliser from Ivan Woods’ penalty kick. “It’s true that winning direct encounters is important. However a draw in this game is a positive result for us as we maintain a seven-point lead over Birkirkara.”

Edward Aquilina admitted that Birkirkara were a better side in the first half but insisted that Sliema were far better after the break, especially with the inclusion of Lubos Pernis. The Sliema mentor showered praise on the Slovakian striker and also quoted his curriculum vitae in describing him as a very effective player.

While denying that Sliema played for a draw against Birkirkara, the Sliema mentor also said that they now have to look at the forthcoming encounter against second placed Valletta. “It is a direct clash and we have to win to re-establish a good lead. We have to be at our best,” concluded Aquilina.

Despite missing out on a good chance to get back strongly into contention, Birkirkara coach Stephen Azzopardi said it was only the result that made him feel disappointed.

“We needed a win to maintain the challenge. We were almost there and should have won the match as we conceded a penalty from a freekick which we should have avoided in the final moments.”

As to the penalty award, Azzopardi was not yet certain of the intention of Etienne Barbara’s ‘hands’. The Stripes coach also confirmed that Nigerian striker missed the match with a thigh injury, but hoped to have him back in the next game.