Xgħajra Tornados produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Pembroke Athleta 4-2 in the BOV Amateur League I. The result provides crucial points for Xgħajra in their battle against relegation, while Attard regained sole leadership of the league standings.

Xgħajra Fight Back from Two Goals Down

Pembroke Athleta, buoyed by points recently awarded from a protest, started brightly and dominated the early chances at the Sirens Stadium. They took the lead in the 37th minute when a shot by Kyle Balbi Sciberras deflected off Francesco Gusman and into the net. Pembroke extended their lead shortly after halftime through Andy Borg, putting them seemingly in control.

However, Xgħajra mounted a spectacular fightback. Ali Shaban initiated the comeback with a “glorious strike” in the 53rd minute that gave the Pembroke goalkeeper no chance. Shaban was denied a second from an acute angle shortly after, but Cedric Zahra equalized for Xgħajra in the 73rd minute with a superb effort.

With minutes remaining, Pembroke captain Kyle Sciberras Balbi had a fine shot brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Miguel Abela. It was Xgħajra who found the winner, with Shaban scoring his second of the match two minutes from time. Richmond Hanson put the icing on the cake in stoppage time with Xgħajra’s fourth goal, sealing a dramatic 4-2 victory.

Attard Go Top, Lija Climb

In other Amateur League I fixtures on Sunday:

• Attard defeated San Ġwann 3-0 to regain the sole leadership of the league. Precious Uchechukwu Nwankwo scored twice (17′, 88′), and Gordon Saliba added another in the second half.
• Lija Athletic moved into fourth place with a 2-0 win over Senglea Athletic, courtesy of goals from Amir Amhamed (66′) and Ross McParland (90′).
• Żejtun Corinthians secured a narrow win over Mellieħa with a goal from Clyde Bouvet seven minutes into added time.

League Standings Summary

Attard now leads the way with a three-point cushion over Qrendi and Qormi.