Kercem Ajax FC were crowned winners of the GFA First Division Knock-Out after defeating SK Victoria Wanderers FC 3-1 in Friday’s final at the Gozo Stadium.

The match looked set for extra time after SK Victoria Wanderers drew level midway through the second half, but two late goals ensured Kercem Ajax lifted the trophy in dramatic fashion.

Kercem Ajax made the brighter start and took the lead after just 10 minutes through Natal Cidcley Severiano, known as Nenem, who finished clinically to put his side ahead early on.

SK Victoria Wanderers attempted to respond but found themselves facing an uphill battle when they were reduced to ten men in the 56th minute after Eduard Nicolas Montenegro Orozco was shown a red card.

Despite being a man down, Wanderers fought back strongly and restored parity in the 75th minute when Ender Duvan Alvarez Vielma found the net to make it 1-1 and set up a tense finish.

However, Kercem Ajax regained control in the closing stages. Andre Gabriel Castro Martins struck in the 87th minute to restore his side’s advantage before Isaias Moura Vera Cruz De Souza added a third two minutes later to seal victory.

The late double ended Wanderers’ resistance and confirmed a memorable triumph for Kercem Ajax, who celebrated lifting the GFA First Division Knock-Out trophy after a composed and clinical display in the decisive moments.

Referee Glen Tonna officiated the final.