Hibernians were forced to settle for a 1โ1 draw after surviving a late onslaught from a spirited Tarxien Rainbows side, who produced one of their most encouraging performances of the Closing Round.
Despite entering the match as clear favourites, the Paolites found themselves under sustained pressure for long spells and had goalkeeper Laurentiu Branescu to thank for salvaging a point.
Hibernians started brightly and took the lead on 17 minutes through debutant Matthew Debattista, who marked his first appearance for the club in style. The former Melita midfielder showed composure inside the area to beat Andrea Cassar at his near post.
Rather than retreating, Tarxien responded positively. Coach Jacques Scerri adopted an adventurous approach, fielding eight foreign players in his starting line-up as the Rainbows went in search of their first points of the Closing Round.
The visitors grew increasingly dangerous as the half progressed. Yilson Mosquera caused problems with his physical presence, embarking on a powerful solo run that ended with a corner on the half-hour mark. Shortly afterwards, Tarxien spurned a golden opportunity when Angel Valverde broke clear and attempted to lob Branescu, only for the Hibernians goalkeeper to stay tall and deny him. Anthony Lokosa then blazed the rebound over the bar.
Branescu was again called into action soon after, denying Valverde from close range, while Hibernians struggled to ease the pressure, with Alfred Silasโ long-range effort drifting harmlessly wide.
After the interval, Branko Nisevic sought greater control by introducing Ali Diakite for Pedro Nunes, while Tarxien also freshened up their attacking options as heavy rain began to fall, further complicating conditions.
Hibernians later welcomed back defender Kurt Shaw, making his return after a brief spell in Italy with Serie C side Sorrento.
The Paolites had chances to extend their lead. Akinbule forced a block from Cassar before dragging a low shot just wide, while Debattista fired over from the edge of the area.
Tarxienโs pressure finally told in the 77th minute when Claudio Barbosaโs teasing free-kick caused chaos in the box and was inadvertently turned into his own net by Hibernians captain Bjorn Kristensen.
Buoyed by the equaliser, the Rainbows pushed for a late winner. Barbosa twice went close, testing Branescu with a powerful drive that was tipped behind before the goalkeeper produced another brave close-range block to preserve parity.
In the end, Tarxien were unable to complete the comeback, but they left with a point that reflected their resilience and attacking intent. Hibernians, meanwhile, were left relieved to escape with a share of the spoils after being pushed all the way by determined opposition.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
Leave a Reply