Alyssa Ashley Loyola 30

Hibs Melita Gardens 47

(2-9, 11-13, 10-9, 7-16)

Hibs drew closer to the sides above them in the standings when they rolled over Loyola who were depleted for this match.

The game didn’t reach any heights but Hibs were quite content to put the win behind them and obtain their second victory in four matches over their opponents.

Loyola had Desarae Johnson to hold them in contention but they didn’t last the pace and Hibs could stroll through.

Loyola were missing Christina Grima Adalia Bonanno and Justine Mangion who all remained on the bench with Francesca Camilleri coming into the side. Hibs recovered Lucienne Bezzina and Maria Desira from their last game.

It was a slow start from both sides especially at Loyola’s end as they felt their players’ absence. The Paolites also had difficulty against a crowded zone.

A three basket spread started them off and Lena Gipson extended their advantage late in the session although it was still a low score.

In the second period Hibs kept pushing on and a 9-0 run enabled them to steer clear of their adversaries.

It was Johnson who pulled her side up by the roots with a personal 8-0 run which gave the team the needed confidence. The Paolites recovered but they only increased their lead marginally and at the interval they were on a low 22-13 advantage.

After the break, the game still couldn’t get off the ground as regards points. It was still difficult for both sides. Johnson dragged Loyola closer but the Paolites had Joselle Cardona and Gipson to open up a better advantage.

With a session to go Hibs were on a 31-23 lead. Loyola couldn’t make up the difference which wasn’t so large. Hibs began to draw away further through Gipson although Loyola had Jean doughty with a triple.

Hibs were still in control and Elena Cassar was finding space to extend her side’s advantage which took them away from their adversaries.

Loyola 1  E. Moore, 5 J. Doughty, M. Gatt, 4  D. Hollier,  K. Tonna,  Sciberras, F. Camilleri, 4  SJ Barbara, 16 D. Johnson.

Hibs J. Xerri, 9 E. Cassar,  M. Zammit, L. Bezzina, F. Mifsud, 2 M. Desira,  K. Gatt, R. Scerri, N. Arrigo, 6 K. Baldacchino, 12  J. Cardona, 18 L. Gipson

Referees E. Mangani, B. Sly