This last game of this category, seemed a meaningless encounter, as both teams had already made the final. The rivalry that exists between the two sides, and Depiro’s first win over Hibs this season, a few days ago, made it a spirited match, which gave Depiro the satisfaction of back to back wins, a couple of days just before the final series starts. The champions are really missing their captain, Lucienne Bezzina, and Depiro are now at full strength, with the return of Rhian Spiteri, who missed the last six matches through injury.

Soon after the start it was Hibs who went into a 5-2 lead. Depiro had a quick reply, and a Greta Zarb trey put them ahead. The Paolites tied the score, at 9-9, only to be hit with another trey, by Sarah Pace. Depiro held on to their lead till the late stages, when Hibs overhauled their adversaries, and a Bev Zammit trey put the champions in front.

In the second quarter Hibs changed their players on court, and Depiro began to exercise control for most of the session. An opening 8-0 run gave them the confidence, and although the Paolites recovered a little midway through the session, to keep in touch, it was Zarb’s personal points at the end, to give Depiro a 32-24 advantage at the interval.

After the break Depiro were still pushing Hibs hard, and an 8-2 run at the start had the champions trailing badly, but suddenly Hibs found their form. They produced an 11-0 run, and were right back in the match. Depiro recovered enough to hold a small lead after three sessions, on a 44-41 score.

In the last quarter the champions drew level, but then it turned into a one-sided game, as Depiro were in control again. They made a 12-0 run, with a second Pace trey and several Joselle Cardona free shots. The Paolites tried to get close once more, with a 7-2 run, and a Francesca Tabone trey. Depiro had enough of a lead at the end, to keep their opponents at arms' length, and coast through to a significant win, but which didn't alter the standings.

DEPIRO: 17 Joselle Cardona, 11 Sarah Pace, 11 Rachel Camilleri

HIBS: 16 Beverlee Zammit, 15 Maria Desira, 10 Alexis Darmanin

REFEREES: Emanuel Mangani, Jean Paul Sammut

Final standings: 28 Hibs Medseas, 27 Depiro, 21 Loyola Xuereb Installations

(The first two teams play in the best of three final. First game is on Sunday, and the second on Tuesday)