Marsa found their winning touch after three consecutive defeats, beating Naxxar Lions in an entertaining match particularly in the second half. In fact after taking a two-goal lead in the first part, Marsa had to survive the Naxxar pressure in the second half, which was packed with goal-mouth actions.

For Naxxar the result is a bit harsh, even though Marsa were by far better. For the Lions this defeat interrupts a series of three positive results, and they now remain dangerously hovering above the danger zone.

As in the first match the strong wind played an important part in this match. Marsa, without the suspended Slavchev at the back, were more determined to stop their negative trend. On their part Naxxar had to defend for long stretches, with Dozie isolated in attack.

Dozie had a good solo run at the start when he penetrated the Marsa defence, but his shot on the turn was weak. On the other end Gilbert Martin’s header from a rather ideal position was blocked by Cini.

On 25 minutes Marsa took the lead with a good move down the left flank by Steve Meilak who crossed to the completely unmarked Jeremy Dalli who tapped the ball home.

Marsa remained in control, and five minutes from time, both teams were reduced to ten men as Naxxar’s Simon Muscat and Marsa’s Darren Vella were sent off for dissent.

Three minutes later Marsa doubled the score when Steve Meilaq was tripped inside the box by Naudi, and from the resultant penalty, goalkeeper Ivan Casha made no mistake.

Naxxar looked a transformed lot in the second half with the inclusion of Gilbert Camilleri. Tabone headed high from an ideal position, with Chima Dozie missing two easy scoring chances.

On 59 minutes Naxxar had a well orchestrated move with Dozie dribbling past goalkeeper Casha, but shooting incredibly wide. A long range Trevor Fenech shot missed the crossbar by inches as Naxxar continued with their assault on the Marsa fort.

The Marsa goalkeeper saved his side with a brilliant save off a thunderous Chima Dozie freekick, and on the other end Marsa missed a glaring chance when Meilaq missed a sitter following a Martin fast break.

However Marsa put the issue beyond doubt on 67 minutes when a Pace shot hit the crossbar and from the rebound Steve Meilaq scored from close range.

Naxxar did not give up with Casha effecting a string of difficult saves on shots from Dozie, Bellia and Sciberras.

However four minutes from time Naxxar scored their first goal through Gilbert Camilleri. On 92 minutes Naxxar scored again as finally Dozie did manage to beat Casha.

With Naxxar pushing for the incredible equaliser substitute Rio Micallef scored Marsa’s fourth goal with the Naxxar defence completely caught off guard.