Created on Sunday, 04 September 2005 07:02

SK Victoria Wanderers obtained qualification to the quarter finals of the competition with a victory in the derby match against Oratory Youths in the penalty shoot-out. First division side SK Victoria Wanderers found it extremely difficult against their neighbours from the second division Oratory Youths. The Wanderers saw more of the ball during the first hour of play but as time passed by their poor physical condition became evident. Oratory took advantage and in the last phases of the match they were in a better shape than their opponents. Referee of the match was Mr. George Portelli.

Victoria expressed their best football in the early stages of the match. In the 5th minute Alan Cini had a good effort that hit the crossbar. In the 15th minute Oratory’s goalie Joe Pisani partially saved a shot from the edge of the area by Chris Sciortino and Dione Lautier (who had a very good game on his return with the Youths) cleared danger from the goalmouth. The Wanderers kept insisting and on the half hour goalie Pisani was well placed to block an attempt by David Muscat, who was unmarked by Alan Cini. Oratory replied in the 35th minute. Debutant Tony Sendo passed to Oralando Atzori but the latter concluded badly from an ideal position. Victoria lost a very good scoring opportunity in the 43rd minute.

Joseph Achokwu, who had an unimpressive debut, received a through passed but he saw his angled shot ending just wide. Play after the resumption was more balanced. In the early stages Victoria were dangerous with a shot by Philip Cardona (ex-Zebbug Rovers) that was well saved by goalie Pisani and Oratory replied with a lob by Oralndo Atzori that was saved by Mercieca. In the 15th minute Joseph Achokwu's shot ended wide and three minutes later a shot by Oratoty's Alex Sacco missed the target. As time passed by actions at the two goals became rare, although Oratory seemed more in control of the match. The score remained unchanged after 90 minutes of play and therefore it ended into extra time. Play during the extra time was mainly at the midfield.