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FA Trophy quarter-finals draw produces enticing ties

Published: 20-01-2017 11:30
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 The FA Trophy quarter-finals draw, held earlier this afternoon at the National Stadium, has thrown up some enticing encounters. Holders Sliema Wanderers, chasing a record-extending 21st FA Trophy triumph, have been drawn against Senglea Athletic, the only Division One survivors in this season’s cup competition after eliminating neighbours Vittoriosa Stars (2-1 after extra-time) in the fourth round.  Sliema Wanderers advanced to the quarter-finals after beating Division Two side Qrendi 5-0. Balzan, the BOV Premier League leaders who edged out Valletta 1-0 in the fourth round, will face fellow top-flight side Tarxien Rainbows, 3-0 winners over Division One side Lija Athletic in the previous round. Balzan lost to Sliema Wanderers on penalties in last season’s FA Trophy final. Floriana, who have won the FA Trophy 19 times, will meet fellow BOV Premier League side Ħamrun Spartans in another mouthwatering quarter-final tie. The Greens secured their passage to the quarter-finals after a 4-1 defeat of Għajnsielem while the Spartans, six-times FA Trophy winners, had the better of Division One side Mqabba 1-0. Having made history by becoming the first Gozitan club to reach the quarter-finals of the FA Trophy, SK Victoria Wanderers will play against Pembroke Athleta in the Last Eight. SK Victoria Wanderers caused the biggest shock of the fourth round after beating St Andrews 1-0 at the Gozo Stadium on Wednesday while BOV Premier League outfit Pembroke Athleta defeated Marsa, of Division One, 2-1. A brand new cup, manufactured by renowned English silversmiths Thomas Lyte, will be presented to the winners of this season’s FA Trophy on May 20, the second most important competition on the Malta FA calendar. FA TROPHY QUARTER-FINALS Balzan vs Tarxien RainbowsSK Victoria Wanderers vs Pembroke AthletaFloriana vs Ħamrun SpartansSenglea Athletic vs Sliema Wanderers Matches to be played on the weekend February 18-19