Marsaxlokk produced a courageous and disciplined performance to stun reigning champions Ħamrun Spartans and book their place in the final after a dramatic semi-final clash.

The Southerners showed tremendous resilience throughout the encounter and, despite conceding a late equaliser, responded brilliantly in extra-time to secure a historic victory that also guarantees them a return to European football next season.

Marsaxlokk made a fearless start and nearly opened the scoring within the opening two minutes when a deflected effort from captain Niki Muscat sailed just over the crossbar with goalkeeper Henry Bonello beaten.

Ħamrun struggled to create clear openings in the early stages and only threatened on 23 minutes when Klebi Serber delivered a cross towards Joseph Mbong, whose header finished over the bar.

Marsaxlokk took the lead on 35 minutes after a Football Video Support review spotted a push by Polito on Enrico Pepe inside the area. Referee Glen Tonna pointed to the spot and Minala calmly converted the penalty.

Just before half-time, Ħamrun appealed for a penalty of their own following a challenge by Minala on Eder, but after another review, the referee decided against awarding the spot-kick.

The Spartans came close in stoppage time when Mbong set up Ceter, but his shot drifted narrowly wide.

Ħamrun increased the pressure after the interval and were unlucky on 53 minutes when a dangerous free-kick delivery from Matthew Guillaumier struck the upright with goalkeeper Maffoumbi caught off guard.

Nine minutes later, Guillaumier again created danger when he picked out Mbong on the edge of the area, but the forward’s effort was deflected just wide.

The champions continued to push forward and nearly equalised 12 minutes from time when Ceter’s low drive flashed inches past the post.

Their pressure finally paid off in the closing stages when Jonny delivered a cross towards Eleke at the far post. The Nigerian headed the ball back across goal for Garcia, who nodded home to force extra-time.

However, Marsaxlokk refused to crumble after the late setback and regained the lead five minutes into extra-time.

Dodo was brought down inside the penalty area by Polito, and following another Football Video Support review, referee Tonna awarded Marsaxlokk a second penalty.

Once again, Minala held his nerve from the spot to restore his side’s advantage.

Marsaxlokk nearly sealed the result moments later when Isaac Christie-Davies raced clear on goal, only to be denied by Bonello.

Ħamrun attempted one final response, but their only real chance came through Inzouine, whose swerving shot was tipped behind by Maffoumbi.

Marsaxlokk held firm in the closing stages to complete a memorable upset and secure one of the biggest victories in the club’s history.