In a result that sent shockwaves through the YoHealth Malta Premier Closing Round, bottom-placed Mosta pulled off a massive 2-1 upset against title contenders Hamrun Spartans at the National Stadium on Sunday. The hero of the hour was Nevin Portelli, whose clinical brace secured a vital three points for the Blues.

The stakes couldn’t have been higher for either side. Hamrun entered the final match of the league phase knowing a victory would see them join Floriana at the summit. Instead, the defeat leaves them trailing the Greens by three points, a significant blow to their championship aspirations.

Mosta, meanwhile, finally found their rhythm. Despite their position at the foot of the table, they played with a grit that belied their ranking, securing their first win of the Closing Round. This result moves them within just two points of Tarxien, breathing new life into their campaign.

The breakthrough came just before the interval. In the 43rd minute, Nevin Portelli found the back of the net to put the Blues ahead, stunning the Spartans’ faithful. Mosta didn’t let up in the second half, and their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when they were awarded a penalty. Portelli stepped up, coolly converting from the spot to double the lead.

Hamrun attempted a late comeback when Blessing Eleke pulled one back in the 76th minute, setting up a frantic finale. However, the Mosta defense held firm under pressure to see out the victory and claim the scalp of the season.