Failla, Martinis and Paul Mbong win Fastex Best Goal Awards for January to March

The Fastex Best Goals presentations for the first quarter of  2025 were held on Wednesday, honouring the standout strikes  from Match Weeks 17, 20, and 27.  

January (MW17) – Clayton Failla (Mosta) vs Gżira United 

Mosta’s experienced left wing-back Clayton Failla was presented with the  Fastex January Goal of the Month trophy for his sensational match-winning  free kick in a 1-0 victory over Gżira United at the very start of the year. 

A moment of trademark precision and composure from the veteran  defender, Failla’s strike is also among the finalists for the prestigious Goal  of the Season award. 

February (MW20) – Apostolos Ilias Martinis (Hibernians)  vs Sliema Wanderers 

February’s award was once again claimed by a left wing-back. This time Apostolos Ilias Martinis of Hibernians.  

The Greek defender, who arrived in Malta in January, made an immediate  impact and became a key figure in Hibernians’ late-season revival. 

His award-winning goal against Sliema Wanderers in Match Week 20  reflects the quality he brought to the squad during his five-month spell. 

Though Martinis has since returned to Greece, this trophy stands as a  small tribute to his valuable contribution in his short five month spell in  Maltese football. 

March (MW27) – Paul Mbong (Birkirkara) vs Sliema  Wanderers 

He may not be a frequent goal scorer, but Paul Mbong’s creativity in  midfield have made him an indispensable part of Birkirkara’s campaign.  

A vital contributor to the club’s return to European football, Mbong was  instrumental (together with other teammates) in restoring the team’s  competitive edge. 

His curling strike from distance during the memorable Gozo Weekender — Match Week 27, was selected as the Fastex March Goal of the Month.  

Despite Birkirkara falling to a 2-1 defeat against Sliema Wanderers at the  Gozo Stadium, Mbong’s moment of brilliance stood out as the highlight  best goal of the month. 

While his future remains open, there is little doubt that wherever Paul  Mbong’s journey leads, continued growth and maturity will follow.