The third encounter in the series was just as exciting as the two before. Depiro just got the verdict after a great Hibs comeback which just failed to materialise at the end. Now the champions need only another win to be crowned again and create a record of five consecutive titles.

Hibs started the game with the first two hoops but Depiro found a way through the Paolites’ zone and put in a nap hand of baskets, as Hibs started to fail their shots, when they had to resort to outside shooting. Depiro were quicker on the ball and went into the lead.

Depiro kept up the good work at the start of the second session, extending their run by a further four points, before Hibs could find their way to basket again, with a Beverlee Zammit trey. The Paolites reduced their deficit further, through freethrows, but Depiro did likewise and Dorianne Galea’s insistence under the board, and slipshod Hibs’ play, ensured a good lead at the interval, as the champions went 24-10 in front.

After the break Hibs went into full press, but were still hit by two Depiro hoops, for a 28-16 lead. Beverlee Zammit came bang into the game, with eight points, including a trey, and the Paolites were back again in the fray. Depiro recovered to open up their lead again, but Zammit sank another trey. It was still not enough, as after three sessions it was still Depiro at 36-32.

In the final quarter the champions could increase their lead again, with Hibs missing many free shots, as they fell further behind, on a 42-33 score. Beverlee Zammit sank her fourth trey, but was fouled out soon after. When Depiro started forging ahead again they were hit by two Lucienne Bezzina treys and Hibs were in with a chance.

Two turnovers in Hibs’ favour made it a one hoop match and it went right down to the wire. Depiro just held out to go in front in the series, which now continues tomorrow, with the fourth encounter.

Depiro: 21 Dorianne Galea, 10 Rhian Spiteri

Hibs: 18 Beverlee Zammit, 14 Lucienne Bezzina

Referees: Emanuel Mangani, Jean Paul Sammut