Valletta assured of 20th Maltese title

Valletta FC have been crowned champions of Malta for the 20th time after wrapping up the title with three games to spare thanks to a 1-0 home win against Marsaxlokk FC.

Needing only a point to make sure of their first championship in three years, the Whites took all three courtesy of Roderick Briffa's 52nd-minute goal. As well as signalling the start of celebrations in the capital, the result also extended Valletta's unbeaten run in the Premier League to 30 matches since a 1-0 defeat by outgoing champions Birkirkara FC on 28 March 2010.

"It's great to make sure of the title with three matches to spare and knowing that you are home and dry," Briffa told UEFA.com following his third goal in two games. "This 20th title for the club means a lot to me. During the course of this season we showed unity all the way."

Jesmond Zerafa, whose unbeaten team are 12 points clear of Floriana FC, added: "I dedicate this title to the Valletta FC family, squad, committee, our special supporters, and my technical staff. This is a lovely day to remember for such a big club like Valletta FC."