Sliema ASC and San Ġiljan brought their European qualifying campaigns to a strong conclusion on Sunday, both sides registering important victories to book their places in the Top 8 phase.

Sliema Edge Thriller to Top Group

Sliema, last season’s semi-finalists, secured first place in their group with a hard-fought 12–10 win over last year’s runners-up EVK Zaibas.

The Maltese side made the better start, edging the opening two sessions to move into a 7–5 lead at the halfway mark. Backed by a vocal home crowd, the Lithuanian hosts pushed forward after the break, but Sliema responded well and won the third session by the odd goal in five to extend their advantage to 10–7.

Zaibas attempted a late comeback in the final quarter and reduced the deficit early on, yet Sliema remained composed in the closing minutes to protect their lead and complete an impressive qualifying run.

Liam Galea led the scoring with a hat-trick, while Nicolò Gitto, Benjamin Cachia and Dino Zammit each added two goals. Aleksandar Ivović, Jake Cachia and Elijah Schembri also got on the scoresheet.

San Ġiljan Rally Past Maribor

San Ġiljan were also pushed all the way before overcoming Slovenian side AVK Branik Maribor 21–19 in another high-scoring encounter.

The hosts opened strongly to take a 4–3 lead after the first session, but San Ġiljan responded with a decisive second quarter to turn the match around and go into the interval 9–8 in front.

The Maltese champions maintained their momentum after the break, stretching their lead to 17–15 heading into the final session. Although Maribor pressed hard in the closing stages, San Ġiljan held firm to secure victory.

Ben Plumpton was the standout performer with six goals, while Nikolai Zammit and Jeremy Zammit each netted five. Marko Vavic and captain Matthew Zammit scored twice apiece, with Alika Naone adding the other goal.

Top 8 Beckons

Both Maltese clubs now advance to the Top 8 tournament scheduled for mid-March, with Malta among the potential hosts for the next phase of the competition.