The Amateur League II witnessed crucial action on Saturday, with Kalkara United extending their perfect winning streak at the top of the table, and Ta’ Xbiex securing a dramatic victory in a match that saw a late red card.

Ta’ Xbiex 2 – 1 Santa Venera

Ta’ Xbiex secured their second win of the season, overcoming Santa Venera in a hard-fought encounter. Ta’ Xbiex started stronger, with an early effort cleared off the line by veteran defender Jeffrey Chetcuti.

The Blacks broke the deadlock in the 29th minute when Andre’ Joe Cutajar sprang the offside trap and fired a strong shot into the net. Just before halftime, Ta’ Xbiex doubled their lead with a finely worked move, finished off by Mark Bonello Ghio in the 44th minute.

The match intensified in the second half. Santa Venera were awarded a penalty in the 65th minute, which was converted by Andres Martinez Zamora. The goal led to a bust-up involving Ta’ Xbiex goalkeeper Carmelo Caruana, who was subsequently sent off. Despite playing the final minutes with ten men, Ta’ Xbiex successfully held onto their slender lead to earn valuable points and climb to mid-table.

Dingli Swallows 1 – 2 Kalkara United

Kalkara United maintained their flawless 100% record, making it five wins from five games, by defeating Dingli Swallows in a competitive top-of-the-table clash.

Dingli had an excellent opportunity to take the lead early on when a cross found Sven Fabri, whose powerful shot slammed against the post. However, Kalkara broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute courtesy of an excellent strike by Rhys Gove’. Dingli managed to equalize just before the break (40′) when a low shot by Daley Ronaldinho bobbled into the net.

The second half was tight, with Gabriel Sant shooting narrowly wide for Dingli. But Kalkara secured all three points in the 83rd minute, with a sharp counter-attack seeing Lucas beat the keeper to maintain the Greens’ perfect start to the season.

⚽ Match Statistics

Santa Venera 1 – 2 Ta’ Xbiex

• Goal Scorers:
  • Santa Venera: Andres Martinez Zamora (65’ pen)
  • Ta’ Xbiex: Andre’ Joe Cutajar (29’), Mark Bonello Ghio (44’)
• Red Card: Carmelo Caruana (Ta’ Xbiex GK, 65’)

Dingli Swallows 1 – 2 Kalkara United

• Goal Scorers:
  • Dingli: Daley Ronaldinho (40’)
  • Kalkara: Rhys Gove’ (32’), Lucas (83’)