Valletta, Balzan target FA Trophy final spot

Champions Valletta take on Balzan in the final of the FA Trophy, powered by Boost Diesel, in the second semi-final at the National Stadium on Sunday, kick-off at 16:00. The winner would be facing Birkirkara in Saturday’s final.

After winning their 24th Premier League title, the Citizens seek the double and the fourteenth trophy win. They reached this stage after defeating Senglea Athletic 2-0 and First Division sides Pietà Hotspurs 1-0 and Zejtun Corinthians 2-0.

Balzan, on the other hand, are eager to claim their first major honour after the big disappointment of losing out to the Premier League title for the second consecutive year, finishing in the runner-up spot. They made it to the semi-finals after defeating Gudja United 4-1, Naxxar Lions 2-0 and Lija Athletic 3-1.

Addressing the media on Friday, Valletta coach Danilo Doncic stressed that the players are fully concentrated on this game as they hope to end the season on a high by claiming the double. On the other hand, Balzan coach Marko Micovic said that his players are prepared to give the champions a worthy challenge in their bid to reach the final and win the club’s first major honour.

In the two Premier League encounters, Balzan defeated Valletta 2-1 in the first round with the second round clash ending in a goalless draw.

Photo: Copyright © Joe Borg

Valletta FC Champions 2018 – Copyright © 2018 Andrew Grima & Neil Grima.