360Sports Malta Premier – Tony Bezzina Stadium
Hibernians……………3
Naxxar Lions………..2
Hibernians secured a crucial victory against Naxxar Lions in a thrilling 360Sports Premier match filled with five first-half goals. This win keeps Hibernians in the top six, while Naxxar Lions remain in deep trouble in the league standings.
First Half
Naxxar Lions took an early lead in the 4th minute when Da Silva set up Bolanos, who passed to Farias for a close-range finish. Hibernians responded quickly, with Fraga coming close in the 8th minute before Chukunyere assisted Villela for the equalizer in the 13th minute.
Hibernians then took control, as Villela netted his second goal in the 22nd minute after receiving a free-kick. A minute later, Naxxar’s Martins received a yellow card. In the 30th minute, Xuereb’s free-kick struck the post and went in, making it 3-1. Naxxar pulled one back in the 38th minute, with Da Silva’s low cross converted by Bolanos.
Second Half
The second half was more balanced, with Naxxar threatening from a 55th-minute free-kick, but Hibernians’ goalkeeper Sanchez made a comfortable save. Bolanos had another opportunity in the 56th minute but failed to finish. Hibernians nearly extended their lead in the 58th and 65th minutes but were denied by Naxxar’s defense.
In the 70th minute, Naxxar came close with a low cross, but Sanchez intercepted. Shortly after, Hibernians introduced Carvalho, who made an immediate impact, forcing two key saves from Naxxar’s defense in the 73rd minute.
Sane received his second yellow card in the 80th minute, leaving Naxxar with 10 men. Despite some late substitutions and a last-minute header from Dos Santos, Sanchez made a crucial save to secure Hibernians’ win.
With this result, Hibernians continue their push for a top-six finish, while Naxxar Lions struggle at the bottom of the table.
