Once mighty Valletta are in deep crisis as they yesterday suffered yet another defeat, this time against Hibernians who thus returned to winning ways. Valletta are now seriously involved in the relegation battle as they are in apparent difficulty.

After the departure of coach Thane Micallef, Valletta’s fortunes have taken a dip for the worse and under the guidance of Vincenzo Potenza they are still in search of their first win. Yesterday’s performance was one of the worst so far for the Citizens who were dominated for long stretches by an otherwise far from convincing Hibernians side.

The Paolites however have now moved up the table temporarily joining Marsaxlokk on the 16-point mark, whilst Valletta remain in an almost desperate position with just ten points and having collected only two points from their last five outings.

Hibernians had a couple of efforts in the first half through Bruno and Degabriele but the Valletta custodian saved well. Ferdinando Apap tried an overhead kick with the ball going inches wide, but the same defender broke the deadlock in the dying seconds of the first half when he headed home following a fast break.

In the second half Valletta’s reaction failed to materialise with the Citizens unable to create a decent scoring opportunity. On 65 minutes Hibernians put their minds at rest with the second goal scored by Alex Bruno who with a shot on the turn gave Jake Galea no chance to save.

It was all over for Valletta who were unable to improve over their mediocrity as they had to leave the pitch once again empty handed to the dismay of their loyal supporters who continue to live this nightmare.

Photo Domenic Aquilina