Floriana claim spoils in Old Firm derby

SLIEMA WANDERERS 1

Mintoff 54

FLORIANA 2

Fonesca 3, Busuttil 69

Floriana's defiant start to the campaign continued unabated yesterday with a composed performance over rivals Sliema Wanderers and in the process cranking up the pressure on their pursuers as they go six points clear at the top of the standings.

Such is their form this season, still unbeaten and with nine wins from 12 games that there is a growing sense of destiny about the Floriana's season. But still they have to be cautious as the target is some way away.

Floriana's ascendancy over Sliema was beyond question yesterday despite a 2-1 scoreline might indicate otherwise.

The Greens' win over their 'old rivals' was a distinct possibility on the strength of the teams' form but Sliema appeared to have the qualities to fend off the challenge of the Premier league leaders after their 2-1 victory over Birkikara last week.

Yet Floriana's superior work-rate and craft, which had not been so conspicious yesterday took its toll on fastly ailing Sliema.

Floriana started at blistering speed and were ahead inside the first three minutes. Diego Venancio sent in a dangerous free-kick and Tiago Fonesca got behind the Sliema defence...