Ahead of Sunday’s match between Hibernians and Ħamrun Spartans, protagonists from both teams shared their thoughts during a press conference. The match is part of the 360Sports Malta Premier League Closing Round, and both sides are looking to push for important points as the season progresses.
Branko Nisevic (Head Coach, Hibernians)
“This is the third time we’ve faced Ħamrun, and they’ve changed a lot. They’ve brought in several quality players and are certainly top contenders for the league title. We’ve also made changes during the transfer window, bringing in two new players to strengthen key areas of the team. Our squad is different from a few years ago, and we are working hard to build a strong team, like when this club used to dominate. Winning three or four matches in a row has been difficult for us, and no team has been consistently winning, except for Birkirkara’s impressive run of nine straight victories earlier this season. We’ve tried to balance things by giving younger players opportunities, and I think we’ve done well so far. We know this Closing Round will be tougher, but our main goal is to finish in the top six of the League Phase and build from there.”
Lucas Caruana (Player, Hibernians)
“In every training session, we give our best to achieve our targets – winning every game and aiming for European qualification or one of the major trophies. Our squad has a lot of local talent, and I’m grateful for their support. They’ve helped me grow as a player, and I push myself every day to improve, alongside the rest of the team. The local players have been a great help to us younger ones, and I do my best to contribute to the team’s objectives.”
Alessandro Zinnari (Head Coach, Ħamrun Spartans)
“The last three matches have been very positive, but they’re now behind us and have only helped build our confidence for the future. My players are working hard every day. Tactically, we haven’t changed much, but each match is different. Many teams are in a transition period this month with new players joining. We’re on a good run of results, which boosts our confidence. With the new signings and players returning from injury, the squad is looking strong. We hope that Roko Prsa, Shaisen Attard, and Gabriel Vella, who are still recovering, will return soon and contribute to the team. Hibernians are a strong side, and Sunday’s game will be a tough one. Our focus is to take each match as it comes and aim for three points in every game. Every day is a chance for my players to improve, stay in good shape, and stay focused on helping the club achieve our end-of-season goals.”
Ognjen Bjelicic (Player, Ħamrun Spartans)
“It feels a bit different this time, as I’ve already played for Ħamrun and won the title two years ago, but our goal is clear: we want to win every match and ultimately win the title. My teammates have made it easy for me to reintegrate into the squad. We give 100% in every match because I understand the pressure and expectations here. I believe I’ve settled in well, thanks to the support of the team. It’s my responsibility to work hard and repay the trust Ħamrun has shown in bringing me back to Maltese football. Ħamrun is now my home, and I’ll give everything I have to help the coach and the team achieve our goal of winning the title again.”
