Ħamrun Spartans kept the title race alive with a hard-earned 2-0 victory over Marsaxlokk at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, thanks to two second-half goals from Blessing Eleke and Joseph Mbong.

The win was vital for the reigning champions, who moved to within two points of leaders Floriana ahead of next weekend’s top-of-the-table showdown.

Cagey First Half

The Spartans made the brighter start, with Eleke twice going close – first with a header from Sven Xerri’s cross that was saved by Christoffer Mafoumbi, and then with a powerful effort from inside the area that the Marsaxlokk goalkeeper kept out.

Matthew Guillaumier also tried his luck from distance, his drive flashing just wide of the post.

Marsaxlokk’s best chance of the opening period fell to Rasmus Linden, whose long-range effort was pushed away by Henry Bonello. After that, clear-cut opportunities were scarce as both sides struggled to create in the final third.

Marsaxlokk Threaten

The southerners came out strongly after the break and nearly took the lead when Domantas Šimkus unleashed a fierce shot that was cleared off the line by Vincenzo Polito.

Moments later, Linden set up Juan Corbalan, but his effort drifted just wide with Bonello beaten.

Eleke Breaks Through

Against the run of play, Ħamrun struck on the hour mark. A dipping cross into the area was met by Eleke, whose clever flick wrong-footed Mafoumbi and found the net for his first goal since joining the Spartans in January.

The goal lifted Ħamrun, who began to assert control. Eder forced a low save from Mafoumbi, while Marsaxlokk came close to an equaliser when Dodo Soares volleyed narrowly wide.

Mbong Seals It

The Spartans wrapped up the points ten minutes from time. Matthew Garcia drove into the area and his deflected cross fell kindly for Mbong, who headed home from close range.

The victory ensured Ħamrun remain firmly in the title hunt and set up a mouth-watering clash with Floriana, while Marsaxlokk were left frustrated after a spirited performance yielded no reward.