Valletta returned to winning ways with a deserved 2-0 victory over Hibernians at the Tony Bezzina Stadium, producing an impressive response following last week’s defeat to Marsaxlokk.
Thane Micallef’s side controlled proceedings for long stretches and struck through Emmanuel Mbende early in the first half before Brandon Paiber sealed the three points with a superb late effort.
The result was also an ideal boost for Valletta ahead of their upcoming Super Cup clash against Floriana.
Valletta could hardly have wished for a better start as they opened the scoring after just three minutes. From a corner, Mbende connected with a header which was only partially stopped by Hibernians goalkeeper Matteo Cardinali, and the defender reacted quickest to fire home from the rebound.
Hibernians struggled to find any rhythm in their attacking play, with Valletta’s defence comfortably dealing with their attempts to move forward.
With the Citizens firmly in control, clear-cut opportunities remained limited, although Roko Prsa came close to doubling their advantage in the 35th minute. The midfielder turned away from his marker before unleashing a powerful effort which Cardinali did well to save.
Valletta had the ball in the net four minutes later when a free-kick from Sekulovic was headed across goal by Sava Radic for Ermin Bicakcik to finish. However, following a Football Video Support review, referee Matthew De Gabriele ruled Radic to have been in an offside position and the goal was disallowed.
The Citizens immediately went on the offensive following the restart, with Sekulovic testing Cardinali with a powerful drive which the Hibernians goalkeeper turned away with an excellent one-handed save.
Hibernians finally threatened in the 52nd minute when Mbong powered forward down the right and delivered the ball towards Matos Silva, whose effort brought a fine reflex save from Valletta goalkeeper Maringa.
Valletta continued to look the more assured side as Hibernians struggled to create sustained pressure.
Proceedings were briefly interrupted with around 15 minutes remaining after tempers flared on the pitch and objects were thrown from the stands.
Any hopes Hibernians had of rescuing something from the match were extinguished in the closing stages.
In the 88th minute, Paiber collected possession outside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful drive which flew beyond Cardinali to wrap up an important victory for the Citizens.
The win puts Valletta firmly back on track after their setback against Marsaxlokk, while Hibernians were left with further questions following a disappointing performance in which they struggled to impose themselves on the match.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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