Recap

Hibernians returned to winning ways with a commanding victory over Valletta Lionesses in the MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League. After recent defeats, the win provided much-needed momentum for Hibernians, while Valletta’s struggles continued as they remain winless in their debut season.

The game began with Hibernians establishing control early. Mikayla Brandon opened the scoring with a smooth jumper, and Kirsty Caruana extended the lead with a mid-range basket. Valletta’s Janae Barnes responded with a trio of three-pointers in the first quarter, keeping her team close. However, Hibernians’ defence and key contributions from Jasmine Abela and Maria Bonett kept them ahead, closing the quarter 15–11.

The second quarter saw Hibernians increase their lead with strong play on both ends. Marie Buhagiar and Naomi Farrugia capitalised on turnovers to convert fast-break points, while Julija Dabic added a floating jumper. Valletta’s Barnes kept them in contention with a driving layup and a free throw, cutting the deficit to eight. However, turnovers continued to haunt Valletta, allowing Hibernians to maintain a 24–16 lead at halftime.

In the third quarter, Valletta showed signs of life. Marija Momcilovic and Aleksandra Nikishina added timely baskets, and Milica Stefanovic found her range with two three-pointers, narrowing the gap to just three points. However, Hibernians answered through Steffi De Martino and Bonett, who combined for crucial buckets. Andie Saliba contributed on both ends of the floor, helping Hibernians weather the Valletta surge and extend their lead to 44–36 by the end of the quarter.

The fourth quarter was marred by a fiery incident between Stefanovic and Saliba just a few seconds into the restart. After a tussle for the ball, Stefanovic appeared to trip Saliba, who retaliated by pushing her opponent to the floor. Both players received technical fouls, leading to Stefanovic’s ejection for her second unsportsmanlike foul. Hibernians capitalised on Valletta’s loss, with Brandon dominating in transition and Saliba adding a fast-break layup and a free throw. Valletta’s late push, led by Sabrina Abugrin and Barnes, was too little too late as Hibernians sealed the win.