Rabat Depiro have promoted Malta to a higher division after managing to beat Aker of Norway by 5 goals to 1 in today's promotion playoff.  After the disappointment of losing their game yesterday to group leaders KPH Raca, Rabat bounced back to beat the Norwegians in style.  After having beaten them twice before in previous editions of the tournament, Rabat were odds on favourites to repeat the feat and they did not disappoint.

However it was not all plain sailing as after barely 5 minutes had passed, Aker had agoal disallowed and then took the lead.  This goal surprised Rabat and it took them a while to make a reaction.  Rabat did react and did so in style.  In the final part of the first half, the northerners scored 4 goals which put their mind to rest.  Jonathan Seychell brought the result level and Branko Radojevic put Rabat in the lead in a short corner move.  From then on Rabat never looked back and Josef Antonelli and Shawn Falzon made it 4 just before the whistle.

In the second half, Aker seemed more determined and pressed Rabat into their own half.  However, against the run of play, Jason Vella scored Rabat's 5th goal.  After that Aker were awarded a penalty stroke but goalkeeper Ian Azzopardi saved the resultant flick.  The game ended 5-1.

Well done to the whole contingent of Rabat Depiro for this huge victory for Maltese  Hockey. Since they are still the current champions we'll be seeing them next year taking part in the EUROHOCKEY CLUB CHAMPIONS CHALLENGE I.

The other team promoted from this division are KPH Raca who defeated HC Napaios Apollon 2-0 in the other playoff.  This match was officiated by Maltese umpire Mr. Reno Cremona.

Ramon Chircop

Shawn, James and Josef praying(!) before one of the matches

Umpire Reno Cremona before the start of the other playoff