Spartans keep marching on

Simon Farrugia

Ħamrun Spartans registered their ninth win of the season when they easily disposed of Tarxien Rainbows by three goals to nil. It was a must win for the Spartans who are pressing to gain a place in Europe next season and they duly acknowledged.

This was another disappointing result for Tarxien who are now languishing near the bottom half of the table. Ħamrun did all the running and even when they were with a man less they just the same dominated.

The Spartans are now well positioned and are grabbing win after win with consistency the major factor for their success. Under coach Giovanni Tedesco they have made great strides and though he was once again suspended for this match his tactical plan is gaining dividends.

In the first round match Tarxien had prevailed winning by the odd goal in three.

Tarxien were first to venture forward when after two minutes a Siraj Arab shot was turned onto a corner by Sean Cini. In the 21st minute Ħamrun responded when Tulimieri’s shot was blocking partially with the Rainbows rearguard finallyclearing the ball to safety.

Ħamrun took the lead on 24 minutes when following a defensive blunder, Moukanza took control of the ball crossed to- wards Marco Criaco whose shot found the corner of the net. Tarxien failed to mount a reaction and nine minutes from the end of the first half Ħamrun went near once again when Nikolopoulos brought the best out of goalkeeper Bugeja who turned into a corner. From the corner that ensued a headed effort by Wilfried Domoraud hit the crossbar.

On resumption Ħamrun were dealt a blow when in the 64th minute Kevin Tulimieri was sent off for a second bookable of- fence.

Though playing with ten man Ħamrun kept on controlling matters and in the 73rd minute the Spartans were unlucky not to increase their lead when a Alain Moukanza shot hit the woodwork.

But seven minutes from the end of the match Ħamrun increased their lead when off a Matthew Gauci cross Wilfried Domoraud slotted the ball home.

Ħamrun sealed the issue in added time when in a quick counter attack a Moukanza cross found Prince Mambouana trying to clear the danger but instead he put the ball in his own net.

The Spartans supporters were now in raptures seeing once again their faithful winning convincingly.

Their season has so far been a positive one bar the elimination from the FA Trophy which was in controversial style and which also resulted in a number of suspensions. Photos: Trevor Sollars