A goal by Rasmus Linden handed Marsaxlokk their first victory of the VBET Malta Premier campaign as they defeated Hibernians 1-0.
Marsaxlokk were the better side, particularly during an impressive first-half display, and deservedly took the three points. Hibernians improved after the break and pushed hard for an equaliser but were unable to find a way past a resilient Marsaxlokk defence.
Hibernians coach Tugberk Tanrivermis retained the same starting line-up which defeated Sliema Wanderers, while Marsaxlokk coach Enzo Potenza made three changes following the 1-1 draw with Balzan. Enrico Pepe, Linden and Domantas Simkus came in for Weder Soares, Lucas Caruana and Redon Mihana.
Marsaxlokk took control during the opening stages and threatened through Nikolai Muscat, whose effort from outside the area went narrowly wide on 14 minutes.
Linden then came close on 31 minutes, sending an acrobatic effort just wide following a cross from Juan Corbalan. Hibernians goalkeeper Matteo Cardinali was called into action on several occasions as Marsaxlokk continued to press.
The breakthrough arrived on 35 minutes. Ulises Arias released Linden on the right and the forward rounded a defender before firing a powerful shot into the bottom left corner to give the Southseasiders the lead.
Marsaxlokk almost added another before half-time when Muscat, following a pass by Dodo, fired narrowly wide from the edge of the area.
Hibernians came out with greater determination after the restart and came close to levelling on 59 minutes. Moritz Romling saw his effort blocked by Marsaxlokk goalkeeper Christoffer Mafoumbi, who then denied Jamie Wahling from the rebound.
The Paolites continued to push forward, but Marsaxlokk remained dangerous on the counter.
Joy Mickels was unfortunate to hit the upright with a header two minutes from time following a cross by fellow substitute Isaiah Chukunyere.
In added time, Redon Mihana almost doubled Marsaxlokk’s lead after a solo run down the right, but his rising effort was turned into a corner by Cardinali.
The final whistle confirmed Marsaxlokk’s first win of the season and a deserved three points, while Hibernians were unable to build on their encouraging opening victory over Sliema Wanderers.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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