Valletta in search of 13th Super Cup win

Abdilla also said that although they are six points behind leaders Floriana in the League, it is evident that the battle is not yet won and lost. “We are aware that it is the second round

Champions Valletta FC and FA Trophy holders Balzan face off this afternoon as they meet for the Malta Super Cup at the National Stadium (kick-off 3pm).

This year’s encounter is a repetition of last year’s match wherein Valletta defeated Balzan 2-1 in a keenly contested game.

For the record, Valletta had taken an early lead through an own goal from Michael Johnson. Balzan then equalised before the interval through Alex da Paixao Alves, but Valletta struck the winner 14 minutes from the end through Mario Fontanella.

This year’s game will possibly be as keen as that of last season and let us not forget that the two teams produced an extremely entertaining and also keenly contested FA Trophy final in May this year when Balzan ran out winners after a penalty shoot-out. which will produce the crucial matches which could make one team or the other champions,” he added.

On his part, Balzan mentor Jacques Scerri said his side’s FA

I expect both teams to go all out for a win to finish the year on a positive note.

In the league Valletta are occupying an exalted 3rd place on 25 points, six adrift of leaders Floriana, while Balzan are 6th on 18 points, seven behind the citizens.

The two coaches, Darren Abdilla of Valletta, and Jacques Scerri of Balzan, are expected to include their typical formation as their starting line-up.

The Maltese Super Cup is an annual game held between the champions of the previous Maltese Premier League season and the holders of the Maltese FA Trophy.

The Cup was first played in 1985 with Rabat defeating Zurrieq 2-0.

Valletta are the most successful Cup winners, having won the title 12 times. Birkirkara follow with 7, Hamrun 5, Hibernians and Sliema three each, Rabat and Floriana two each.

Trophy win seven months ago was still fresh in their minds. “That was one of the best matches last season and I hope this match will again be another thriller.