Mqabba returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion as they claimed derby bragging rights with a convincing 4–1 victory over Qrendi in a National Amateur League I encounter.

The match carried added significance for both sides. Qrendi arrived in confident mood following their recent win over Qormi, while Mqabba were eager to regain momentum after a frustrating spell that saw them lose three points due to a protest against Pembroke and then drop points in a draw against neighbours Kirkop.

Mqabba started on the front foot and created the first real opening after just four minutes, when Andres Tenorio tested Christian Cassar with a low effort. Qrendi responded nine minutes later, as Anthony Godwin unleashed a powerful shot that forced a fine save from Mario Bartolo.

After a relatively quiet spell, Mqabba broke the deadlock four minutes before the interval. Tenorio timed his run perfectly to beat the offside trap and saw his initial effort blocked by Cassar, but the Colombian reacted quickest to smash home the rebound and put the Reds ahead.

The home side carried their momentum into the second half, with Tenorio again going close early on, only to be denied by Cassar. However, the striker was not to be stopped and doubled Mqabba’s lead on 48 minutes with a thunderous strike that flew past the Qrendi goalkeeper.

The contest was effectively decided on 57 minutes when Luka Mijic made it 3–0, firing in a powerful shot to cap another slick attacking move. Mqabba continued to dominate and added a fourth goal on 64 minutes, as Luca Bugeja finished clinically into the corner following a well-delivered cross from the right.

Qrendi managed a late consolation goal 12 minutes from time through Emmanuel Godwin, who capitalised on a loose ball to reduce the deficit. However, by then the outcome was beyond doubt as Mqabba comfortably saw out the remainder of the match.

The victory allows Mqabba to restore confidence and reassert themselves in the promotion race, while Qrendi were left to reflect on a derby defeat despite a spirited effort.