Kerygma 64

Naxxar Danone 79

(15-19)(18-16)(22-25)(9-19)

Naxxar had quite a scare as Kerygma chased hard for most of the match, but finally succumbed in the last session, as Naxxar consolidated their third place in the standings.

It was a close game at the start, as Naxxar sought an early lead, but Kerygma were right behind them.

In the second quarter Naxxar had a better start and managed a good 30-19 advantage, after an Ann Marie Cefai trey. Kerygma were not disheartened, and pulled back admirably till the end of the session, to just a basket down, at 33-35, at the interval.

After the break Naxxar once more pulled away, and led 47-40, as Charlotte Riolo was sinking her treys and causing havoc in the Kerygma defence.

But Kerygma had enough fight in them, as they crawled back again, to tie the game, only to see Naxxar go back in front, thanks to Riolo’s other trey. It was 60-55 after three sessions.

The final quarter was Kerygma’s downfall, as Naxxar pulled through with Irene Farrugia and Annie Jetcheva hoops, and this time Kerygma didn’t make it back. A further Riolo trey sealed the game, although there was enough time left for both sides to improve on their score.

Kerygma: 24 Renette Debono, 16 Elaine Cutajar

Naxxar: 25 Irene Farrugia, 20 Charlotte Riolo

Referees: Gordon Barbara, Mark Camilleri.

Luxol Vodafone 41

Hibs Go Mobile 63

(6-15)(5-10)(18-15)(12-23)

Hibs overcame yet another hurdle in their quest to stay at the top of the standings. It was their fourth victory over Luxol this season.

After a hesitant start Hibs took over and a 12-1 run gave a good first session lead. The second quarter was short on points, as Luxol couldn’t get into the scheme of things and Hibs managed to increase their lead slightly, so that at the interval they held a 25-11 advantage.

After the break play livened up and both sides had their moments. Kirsten Micallef kept sinking her treys but Hibs had Marion Vella, going on court in the second part of the game, making her presence felt.

The Paolites, despite having a 2-9 run against them, still kept a good 40-29 lead after three sessions.

The final quarter found Hibs making sure at the start as Lucienne Bezzina let loose, and a 12-3 break made all the difference. Although Luxol reacted they were too far back and Hibs could coast home for yet another win.

Luxol: 18 Kirsten Micallef.

Hibs: 18 Lucienne Bezzina, 16 Alexis Darmanin, 15 Marion Vella

Referees: Gordon Barbara, Joe Borg.