Hibs had to huff and puff to progress to the final, when playing against Luxol, who had to do without two of their first five players. The Violets surprised the Paolites for nearly three sessions, before the champions could take the match in hand, and ascertain themselves of a place ion the final. Allis not lost for Luxol, as they still have to meet Depiro twice, with an even chance of going through, against Hibs.

Luxol had to make do without Beverlee Zammit and Emma Moore, both injured.

It was a quiet match at the start, as both sides exchanged leads. When Mandi Sciortino came on court, her points gave the Violets the first real lead. The champions came back, but they were just short on gaining alead, and the first session ended on a tie.

In the second quarter Hibs went behind once more, but Kirsten Micallef sank a trey for them, and they were in front. Luxol’s reaction was psoitive, and an 8-0 run, from four different players, pushed the Paolites in arrears. Hibs had Kirsten Micallef to revive them again, with her personal points, and a second trey. Luxol held on to their lead, and at the interval they were in front, on a 23-22 score.

After the break the game couldn’t seem to get off the ground. Scoring was at a premium, and shooting left much to be desired. The champions managed to draw level, but then suffered another Luxol run, with three hoops against. It was Kirsten Micallef again who pulled the Paolites back, with more personal points, and a third trey. After three sessions the Violets still had their noses in front, on a slim 30-29 advantage.

In the final quarter continued their positive play, and a further 8-0 run, starting with a fourth Micallef trey, finalyy gave them a lead to rest on. Luxol came with a Psaila Savona trey, but Marylou Cutajar was on court for the champions, and her trademark hoops were beneficial to Hibs, as they held on to their advantage. Luxol’s last efforts weren’t enough, and the Paolites remained in front, and assured themselves of a play off final place.

Hibs: 16 Kirsten Micallef, 7 Lucienne Bezzina

Luxol: 13 Mandi Sciortino, 7 Francesca Psaila Savona

Referees: Bernard Vassallo, Stephen Micallef