Hibernians and Valletta shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw at the National Stadium, a result that did little to boost either side’s hopes of securing a Top Six berth.
The match marked Andrei Agius’ first game in charge of Hibernians, but the Paolites remain ninth on 11 points, two behind Naxxar Lions who still have a game in hand. Valletta sit fifth on 13 points, level with Naxxar and Sliema Wanderers with two fixtures left to determine qualification.
Hibernians started brightly and created the first opening when Duane Bonnici fired wide after a swift counter-attack. Valletta replied with a header from Bjorn Kristensen that forced a good save from Adilson, while the Hibs captain later threatened again from a corner but failed to find the target.
Chances followed at both ends. Emanuel Mbende’s header lacked power to trouble Laurentiu Branescu, and Yannick Yankam was denied from close range by the Hibernians goalkeeper. Mailson then found space inside the area but misconnected with the delivery, and just before half-time Brandon Paiber saw a low drive pass narrowly wide.
Valletta began the second half on the front foot. Yuri struck the woodwork early on, and Paiber’s long-range free-kick was tipped over by Branescu. Their pressure paid off on the hour when Sava Radic finished from close range after a set-piece to give the Citizens the lead.
Hibernians responded through Miullen, who first tested Adilson with a shot from the edge of the area before producing a spectacular overhead kick to equalise on 74 minutes.
The Brazilian’s celebration proved costly, however, as he was shown a second yellow card for removing his shirt, leaving Hibernians to play the closing stages with ten men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Paolites continued to press for a winner, while Valletta also threatened late on through Diogo Tavares, whose curling effort drifted just wide. In the end, both sides had to settle for a point that keeps the race for the Top Six finely poised.
Sliema Wanderers saw their hopes of closing in on a Top Six place suffer a blow after being held to a 1-1 draw by Tarxien Rainbows at the Tony Bezzina Stadium.
The Blues entered the match needing a victory to strengthen their position in the standings and looked to be on course for all three points when Uroš Djuranović gave them the lead on 56 minutes.
However, Pablo Doffo’s side were unable to preserve their advantage as Tarxien responded with determination. Anthony Lokosa struck ten minutes later to restore parity and earn his side a valuable point.
While the result dented Sliema’s push for a Top Six finish, Tarxien were the more satisfied of the two teams as they added another important point in their battle to avoid relegation.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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