Sliema’s return to the top flight ended with the Wanderers on the losing end against Birkirkara in a tight match.

There was not much between the two sides in this match which was decided by substitute Ciolacu half way through the second half.

But although leaving the field empty handed the Wanderers can be satisfied with their performance, and coach Paul Zammit can look forward for better times.

It was not an easy comeback for the Wanderers against one of the op sides oh the Premier League, but the Blues gave the Stripes a very good run for their money.

Birkirkara were surely happy to grab the first three points at stake, even if they have to show better quality if they wish to challenge for the honours.

But it is still to early to judge as both teams had several new faces in their line ups and both coaches will need some time to take the best out of their players.

One of Sliema’s new signings, Vito Plut almost made an immediate impact when in the early minutes had a shot cleared off the goal line.

Birkirkara’s first glimpse of goal came on 20 minutes with Satariano testing Al Tumi in the Sliema goal.

On the half hour Al Tumi was again called in action to block a Queiroz de Jesus effort and just before the break a Freire header wnet jus wide.

The Stripes were more determined in the second half with Queiroz failing to connect in front of goal on 50 minutes.

Four minutes later a Maxuell direct freekick slightly missed the target.

On 62 minutes Sliema had a good opportunity with Acheampong passing towards Kouao who failed to hit home from an ideal position.

Six minutes later Birkirkara scored what proved to be the winner.

Queiroz passed towards Satariano whose cross was met by substitute Ciolacu who drilled the ball home.

On 75 minutes another Birkirkara opportunity with a Queiroz shot on the turn missing the target.

Sliema forced for a late equaliser with the Stripes forced to defend their slender lead, but only came close with an Awad effort that missed the target.