Birkirkara survive early scare as they beat Hamrun Spartans to make it seven wins in a row

Despite conceding a penalty after less than two minutes, Birkirkara reacted in an excellent manner to turn defeat into victory as they beat Hamrun Spartans 3-2 in a match from the 360Sports Malta Premier Opening Round at the Tony Bezzina Stadium on Saturday.

This was the seventh successive win for the Stripes as they extend their unbeaten record to eight matches, moving temporarily seven points clear of Floriana. Hamrun Spartans, on the other hand, have already suffered more defeats than they did last season as this was their third defeat in five matches. They now lie eleven points behind Birkirkara.

Hamrun had Eder and Wendel Barros replacing Juan Corbalan and Raphael Lopes but were unlucky to lose Sven Xerri and the same Eder injured during the first half. Stefano De Angelis, on the other hand, named an unchanged side for Birkirkara.

The Spartans were awarded a penalty after just 45 seconds when Chris Ondong Mba was pushed by Agustin Sandona inside the area. Referee Philip Farrugia ordered a penalty and Luke Montebello converted.

Birkirkara levelled matters on 36 minutes when Maxuell Samurai controlled the ball just outside the area and served Gnamien Yipke who returned the compliment with the Brazilian hitting low; the ball was partially saved by Henry Bonello and Alexander Satariano hit home from close range.

Three minutes from the end of the first half when Alexander Satariano won the ball in midfield and advanced upfield before serving Gnamien Yipke who slotted the ball from the left past Bonello.

Five minutes in the second half, Birkirkara made it 3-1 as Alexander Satariano concluded a great solo effort with a rising shot from inside the area which gave Bonello no chance.

Eleven minutes from time, substitute Shaisen Attard reduced the gap for Hamrun, taking advantage from a deflection by Leandro Lacunza and entering the area before beating Volpe with an angled shot from the left.

>> Birkirkara FC vs Hamrun Spartans FC match card

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>> The 360Sports Malta Premier league format explained