Exiles Elia Caterers 7 Sliema 8

Partial scores: (3-1) (2-0) (1-4) (1-3)

Last night Exiles had to bow in the last minute of the fourth and final session when neighbours Sliema had the last say in a keen encounter which saw Igor Vukanovic’s boys provide a gallant display even if they left the Pool empty handed.

Exiles had a flying start winning the first two quarters to open a four- goal advantage (5-1) with a slick display of solid defending marshaled by young Max Martin who was inspirational to his team mates – keeping their opponents at bay. In the third session Sliema upped their tempo and surprised Exiles with quick goals to reduce the gap to a slender goal (5-6) . The pace of the last session slowed as both teams wanted to seal the issue without exposing themselves at the rearguard. It was Sliema that pipped Exiles in the last minute when after the latter survived a man-down situation, Mark Meli slammed the ball at the back of the net with a drive from the right flank.

Overall, Exiles improved their collective level of play despite the blackout in the third session which is evidently their weakest one when a stretched team requires fresh players from the bench to ensure that the level of play shown in the first half of the match is maintained. When in numerical disadvantage, Igor made use of an effective defensive press on certain positions of the opponents to avoid certain goals.

Scorers for Exiles to be provided shortly.

The final match of the Enemed Cup, will be played next Saturday 9th March at 17.30 hours at the National Pool Complex when Exiles face Valletta United.

KaFa

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