Marsaxlokk brought Birkirkara’s difficult run of form into even sharper focus after inflicting a sixth consecutive defeat on the Stripes with a dramatic 2–1 victory in the final match of the YoHealth Malta Premier Opening Round Top 6, played at the Tony Bezzina Stadium on Sunday.

The Southseasiders made a strong start and were rewarded as early as the 10th minute when Dodo broke the deadlock, finishing clinically to give Marsaxlokk an early advantage and set the tone for an intense encounter.

Birkirkara gradually worked their way back into the contest and drew level on 36 minutes through Fran López, who capitalised on a rare lapse in the Marsaxlokk defence to restore parity and keep his side in the game heading into the interval.

The second half developed into a tense and evenly balanced affair, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal but struggling to create clear-cut chances as the minutes ticked by. When the match appeared destined to end all square, Marsaxlokk struck a late and decisive blow.

Two minutes into added time, substitute Ensell Attard popped up with the winning goal, sparking celebrations among the Marsaxlokk supporters and sealing all three points in dramatic fashion.

The result capped a strong end to the Opening Round for Marsaxlokk, while Birkirkara were left to reflect on another frustrating afternoon as their losing streak extended to six matches, leaving them with plenty to address ahead of the next phase of the season.