I have been supporting Hibernians and directly involved with the club one way or another, for at least 53 years and I am proud to have done so.

In the past, I served in the main committee and so did my late father, my brother Lawrence and other members of my family.

I cannot recall any one other occasion when I felt so proud that I hail from Paola. This was last Friday when I considered myself so lucky to witness the Five Star performance by our magnificent young boys. I am sure that they will never forget this day when they all showed their determination and fighting spirit throughout the whole game and never said die!!

I do not wish to single out any of the boys as it will be unjust and unfair to do so. I would like to congratulate Robert Gatt and his assistant Michael Woods. These two gentlemen must have suffered in no small way throughout the season, but were finally rewarded for their hard work and for having shown faith in our young and upcoming boys.

On behalf of all the supporters, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the club president Tony Bezzina and needless to say, to the other committee members who all played such an important role. We are all proud of you.

I have known Tony since our childhood. He was born in Paola and lives in Paola. The name Tony Bezzina is synonymous with the Hibernians Football Club. He has been at the helm of our club for a good number of years, uncontested. I am sure that he will remain there for years to come.

Tony has always kept a low profile. He never had any personal ambitions or hidden agenda when his team or home village are at stake. He is a ‘chip of the old block’. No surprise he is respected and loved by all in Paola. He is a true gentleman, who would never dream of letting down or playing second fiddle to his home village.

A big thank you should also go to all the supporters who stood behind their team from start up to the final seconds during last Friday’s final. They should also be congratulated for their excellent behaviour and the unforgettable atmosphere they created both at Ta’ Qali and after.

Well done all those who were in charge of spontaneous celebrations, the Supporters Club and to all those who have Hibs at heart. I am sure that we shall all witness more of last Friday in the coming years.

George Xuereb

St JULIAN’S