Naxxar Lions maintained control of their Top 6 ambitions after securing a gritty 1-1 draw against Marsaxlokk, despite playing much of the match with ten men.

The Lions enjoyed a dream start in the 16th minute when Louis Pahama intercepted the ball in midfield and unleashed a spectacular 30-metre strike into the top corner. Marsaxlokk responded aggressively, with Nicky Muscat seeing a deflected volley rattle the crossbar and goalkeeper Matthias Debono forced into several key saves.

The complexion of the game shifted in the 40th minute when Naxxar’s Gustavo Goncalves received a second yellow card. With the man advantage, Marsaxlokk ramped up the pressure in the second half, eventually finding an equalizer in the 65th minute through Dodo, who capitalised on a failed clearance.

Marsaxlokk had a golden opportunity to snatch all three points when they were awarded a penalty following Joao Moura’s foul on Aguirre. However, Matthias Debono emerged as the hero, diving low to deny Dodo from the spot.

Despite late chances at both ends—including a “miracle” save by Maffoumbi on Vitinho and a point-blank stop by Debono on Corbalan—the spoils were shared. The result leaves Naxxar needing a victory against Hibernians in their final fixture to guarantee a Top 6 finish, regardless of Sliema Wanderers’ result.