Sliema Wanderers….. 2
Hibernians………………3
Hibernians returned to winning form following a disappointing performance in their previous match by defeating Paul Zammit’s Sliema Wanderers. With this victory, they reached six points from four games in the Closing Round standings, matching Sliema’s tally.
The Paolites earned a well-deserved win, with the scoreline reflecting their overall dominance. The margin could have been even greater, as Hibernians delivered a solid performance. Meanwhile, Sliema struggled, particularly in the second half, and were far from their best during defensive transitions. The match’s first notable action came in the 18th minute when Hibernians took the lead. January signing Lucas Villela, the Brazilian acquisition, collected a long pass on the right wing, made a well-measured run, and finished with a low shot past Sliema goalkeeper Kelvin Agu.
Just three minutes later, Sliema responded. Steve Pisani delivered a free-kick from the right, and Vito Plut produced a fine header that found the back of the net. In the 24th minute, Hibernians regained the lead. A cross from the left by Greek player Apostolos Martinis unexpectedly found its way into the net, helped by a touch of fortune, but ultimately rewarding the visitors.
In the 51st minute, Hibernians extended their advantage with a beautifully executed team move down the right flank. The combination play between Alex Bruno and Kevin Fraga resulted in Fraga delivering a delightful finish past Agu. Sliema managed to reduce the deficit in the 64th minute. Adam Magri Overend’s run on the right caused some disruption in Hibernians’ defence, and the ball was played across to substitute Maksym Priadun, who scored from the left. Despite their late efforts, Sliema could not find an equaliser, and Hibernians held on for a crucial win.
Man of the Match: Alex Bruno (Hibernians)
Referee: Glen Tonna
Team Line-ups:
Sliema Wanderers: K. Agu, J. Borg, N. Frendo (61′ M. Priadun), A. Magri Overend (89′ N. Strickland), V. Plut (70′ W. Matos Da Silva), M. Beerman, G. Alcino, G. Acheampong (C), S. Zibo, S. Pisani (70′ K. Nwoko), M. Awad
Hibernians: H. Sacco, A. Silas (90+’ P. Nunes Silva), K. Shaw, L. Villela, K. Fraga, J. Degabriele (77′ L. Caruana), B. Kristensen (C), D. Xuereb, A. Bruno (77′ I. Chukunyere), A. Martinis, M. Ellul
