Champions’ Comeback: Ħamrun Finish First in Dramatic Fashion
Ħamrun Spartans 1–0 Sliema Wanderers
📍 Tony Bezzina Stadium
⚽ Goal: Damir Ceter 29’
Ħamrun Spartans sealed the top spot in the Opening Round of the YoHealth Malta Premier in dramatic fashion, edging past Sliema Wanderers with a hard-fought 1-0 victory. The result, combined with Floriana’s draw against Valletta, catapulted the Spartans to first place — just when it mattered most.
Match Recap
The game began with both teams adopting a cautious approach. Sliema threatened early through Vito Plut, but it was Ħamrun who drew first blood.
🔴 In the 29th minute, Damir Ceter marked his arrival in style. The Colombian striker received the ball in the box, spun past his marker, and fired a low shot that slipped under Al Tumi and into the back of the net — his first goal for the club and a crucial one.
Ħamrun nearly doubled their lead shortly after when Matias Garcia broke into the box, but his low effort was denied by a sharp Al Tumi save.
⚠️ Sliema thought they had equalised before half-time through Roko Prsa, but the goal was chalked off after a Football Video Support (FVS) review spotted a foul earlier in the play.
Second Half Pressure
Sliema pushed harder after the break, but Ħamrun held firm.
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Koffi and Ceter both had chances to kill the game off.
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A late flurry of attacks by the Wanderers, including powerful shots from Bah and Kyrian Nwoko, were brilliantly saved by Henry Bonello, whose heroics between the posts preserved all three points.
Table Turned: From 4 Points Behind to 1 Point Ahead
With Floriana held to a goalless draw by Valletta in the derby, Ħamrun leapfrogged them at the final whistle to finish top with 34 points.
What seemed like an improbable comeback just two matchdays ago became reality through grit, heart, and precision.
Hero of the Match
🌟 Damir Ceter – Scored the match-winner and led the line with physicality and presence. A debut to remember.
Let the next chapter begin.
We believe. We fight. We lead.
