San Giljan yesterday outclassed neighbours and champions Neptunes in the Balluta derby, to inflict the first defeat of the season on the champions.

San Giljan were by far worthy winners yesterday against a side that was fresh from the triumphant victory over rivals Sliema.

But yesterday Neptunes struggled against a better outfit who showed their worth and confirmed their credentials for a shot at the title.

Although dominating from the start San Giljan made the decisive break in the third session extending their lead to six goals.

In the final session Neptunes crawled back as San Giljan relaxed their hold in defence, but it was too late for the champions.

San Giljan’s Ben Plumpton was the game’s best scorer with four goals, while Neptunes star Steve Camilleri was yesterday subdued, managing only to score twice.

In the other match played yesterday from the First Division league, Marsaskala obtained their first victory of the season against Gozitan side Otters.

Neptunes 10 San Giljan 13 (0-1), (4-5), (1-5), (5-2)

Neptunes: A. Borg Cole, J. Muscat (2), L. Calleja, G. Pace, S. Busuttil, J. Spiteri Staines, S. Camilleri (2), J. Camilleri (2), J. Abela (2), N. Zammit (2), S. Stellini, S. Gialanze, B. Busuttil, M. Castillo, M. Farrugia

San Giljan: J. Tanti, K. Tanti, A. Galea (3), D. Ciantar, M. Mannino, M. Zammit, B. Plumpton (4), J. Bonavia, Z. Micallef, Da. Zammit (1), P. Fava (3), Di. Zammit (2), G. Vassallo, M. Ortoleva

Referees Massimo Angileri, Ronnie Spiteri

 

Marsaskala Fish and Fish 14 Otters Nivea 6 (4-1), (3-1), (3-2), (4-2)

Marsaskala: J. Micallef, J.C. Cutajar (1), A. Camenzuli, P. Privitera (2), M. Aquilina (2), L. Grixti (2), K. Navarro (1), M. Manara (2), L. Felice, G. Galea, R. Attard, M. Chircop, A. Muscat, D. Camilleri, L. Grech Carr

Otters: M. Xerri, M. Lanzon (1), R. Caruana (1), L. Hyzler, E. Meli, L. Gialanze (1), K. Scicluna, M. Caruana (1), D. Dimech, D. Tully (2), S. Xerri, D. Spiteri

Peter Balzan, Neville Mercieca