The 2026 BOV water polo Winter League preliminary rounds delivered a display of offensive power this weekend, with Valletta and Birżebbuġa ASC securing dominant victories at the National Pool Complex. 

Valletta Outclass Otters with 19–3 Routing 

Valletta proved to be far too strong for Otters Nivea, outclassing their opponents in a one-sided 19–3 victory. 

The “Citizens” were spearheaded by Jake Colombo and Jacob Sciberras, who both found the net four times. New signing Daniel Tully, who recently joined the club from San Ġiljan, made an immediate impact with a clinical hat-trick. Additional goals were provided by Matthew Chircop, Max Zammit, and Aiden Formosa (two each), with Ken Erdogan and Mark Carani also getting on the scoresheet. For Otters, Bence Bobok managed two goals, while Neil Cini added one. The match was officiated by Ronnie Spiteri and Luke Galea. 

Birżebbuġa Earn Premier Promotion with Victory Over Exiles

In a high-stakes encounter, Birżebbuġa ASC secured their place in the Premier Division for the upcoming phase after a hard-fought 18–12 win against Exiles Welbee’s. 

Jake Ciantar was the standout protagonist for Birżebbuġa, scoring six goals to lead his side to victory. Supporting efforts came from Miguel Cassar (4 goals), Miguel Curmi (3), and Nicholas Bugelli (2), with Andre Aquilina, Mikhael Cutajar, and Isaac Galea each contributing a goal. Exiles fought back through Kurt Griscti, who netted five goals, but they were unable to close the gap. Other scorers for Exiles included David Pace Lupi (2), Mark Fenech, Francesco Scardino, Nathan Bonavia, and Kyle Navarro. The officiating team consisted of Stefan Licari and Neville Mercieca.

The result confirms Birżebbuġa’s participation in the Winter League Premier Division, while Exiles will compete in the First Division phase.