Marsaxlokk missed out on the chance to join Hamrun Spartans and Floriana on top the BOV Premier League table as a goal by Jhonnattann Benites da Conceicao mid-way through the second half handed Valletta a narrow win at the Centenary Stadium on Sunday.
For Marsaxlokk, this was the first defeat after dropping just two points in a draw from the first four matches. Valletta, on the other hand, registered a second win to move fourth as they had coach Vincenzo Potenza making his debut since replacing Thane Micallef.
Marsaxlokk could have taken the lead on the 28th minute when they were awarded a penalty after Yuri Messias was floored inside the area by Enzo Ruiz. However the Brazilian’s forward effort was neutralised by Jake Galea.
Valletta went close to equalising early in the second half when Jhonnattann hit the crossbar with an angled shot from the right.
However, Jhonnattann was not to be denied on the 70th minute when off a freekick from the left, Enzo Ruiz’s header was blocked by Drobnjak but the Brazilian headed home from close range.
Federico Falcone could have added another for Valletta a few minutes later but hit the upright with a diving header.
