Effiong scores four as Balzan win first-ever FA Trophy
Balzan won an historic first FA Trophy title when they edged past newly-crowned champions Valletta 5-4 on penalties after the thrilling final had ended in a 4-4 after extra-time.
Balzan striker Alfred Effiong was the absolute protagonist as the Malta international scored all his team's goals before converted the decisive penalty in a tense shoot-out which saw Reds goalkeeper Sean Mintoff save Nicholas Pulis' effort from the spot.
The win ensured that Balzan played European football for a second successive season as they will now play inthe Europa League qualifiers in the summer.
Balzan made a fast start and inside the first minute Ivan Bozovic hit a low drive that was somehow kept out by goalkeeper Henry Bonello and from the rebound Steve Borg anticipated Effiong from close in
From the resultant corner, taken by Correa, Effiong’s angled header forced a fine one-handed save from the Valletta custodian.
But the Malta striker was not to be denied as on eight minutes he gave Balzan the lead.
Uros Ljubomirac intercepted Rowen Muscat’s poor pass and the Serbian charged forward before teeing up Effiong. The Balzan striker fended off the challenge of Steve Borg before hitting a low...