Sliema ASC showcased an impressive performance at the LEN Challenger Cup, achieving a decisive 15-7 victory against Portugal’s Clube Fluvial, marking their second consecutive win in the tournament.
Both teams entered the match with prior wins, making this clash crucial for Sliema’s chances of advancing. The Maltese side needed at least a draw against the Swiss team, Carouge Natation, to progress to the next round.
Dino Zammit led the charge for Sliema, scoring four goals and serving as a key playmaker throughout the match. John Brownrigg also made a significant contribution, netting two goals. The team’s scoring depth was further highlighted by Julian Chircop’s hat-trick and additional goals from Daniel Rizzo and Elijah Schembri, who impressed with their performances.
Sliema started strong, taking a 3-1 lead in the first quarter. Zammit’s early goals set the tone, with Brownrigg adding to the score before Clube Fluvial’s Joao Moreira managed to find the net late in the period. Sliema maintained their momentum, extending their lead to four goals with contributions from Zammit and Liam Galea, although the Portuguese side managed to respond, closing the gap to 5-3.
Both teams converted penalties, with Zammit and Tiago Parati each scoring from the spot. However, Jamie Gambin then struck twice in quick succession, helping Sliema end the second quarter ahead 8-4.
The third quarter saw Galea extend the lead to 9-4, but Sliema struggled to capitalize on additional opportunities. In the fourth quarter, goals from Elijah Schembri and Julian Chircop secured the victory, while Brownrigg added his second goal of the match. Coach Giannis Katrouzanakis utilized the opportunity to give younger players, including second-choice goalkeeper Zack Dzanovic, some valuable playing time.
Daniel Rizzo also got on the scoresheet, while Chircop capped off his performance with a third goal.
**Final Score:** Sliema ASC 15, Clube Fluvial 7
**Sliema ASC Scorers:**
– D. Zammit: 4
– J. Brownrigg: 2
– L. Galea: 2
– J. Gambin: 2
– J. Chircop: 3
– D. Rizzo: 1
– E. Schembri: 1
**Clube Fluvial Scorers:**
– T. Parati: 2
– D. Pinto: 2
– J. Moreira: 1
– R. Sousa: 1
– A. Pereira: 1
This victory places Sliema ASC in a strong position as they look ahead to their next challenge in the tournament.
