Recap

Hibernians emerged victorious against Athleta in a tightly contested MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League game. The game was marked by impressive individual performances and a well-coordinated team effort from Hibernians to secure the win.

The first quarter began with Athleta’s Nicole Vella draining a three-pointer to put her side ahead early. However, Mikayla Brandon responded emphatically for Hibernians, scoring back-to-back long-rangers to give her team a 6-3 advantage.

Athleta found their rhythm midway through the quarter, as Kennedi Williams and Francesca Sant capitalised on turnovers to establish a 15-6 lead.

Hibernians rallied late in the quarter, with Steffi De Martino’s second-chance three-pointer and Julija Dabic’s timely layup narrowing the gap to 16-14.

Brandon carried her momentum into the second quarter, scoring two quick three-pointers to flip the lead in Hibernians’ favour. Though Vella kept Athleta within striking distance with sharp perimeter shooting, De Martino’s consistency and Dabic’s presence in the paint helped Hibernians extend their lead. Williams’ late fast-break layup and free throw for Athleta reduced the deficit to just three points at halftime, with the score at 35-32.

The third quarter saw Hibernians controlling the tempo, with Dabic excelling on both ends of the court. Her fast-break layups and second-chance points built a 43-36 lead. De Martino remained a constant threat, adding a three-pointer late in the quarter to stretch the margin to 48-40 heading into the final period.

In the fourth quarter, Hibernians opened with a 10-point lead thanks to Naomi Farrugia’s composed free throws. Athleta made a spirited push, with Vella and Britney Agius leading the charge, reducing the deficit to just three points at 50-47. However, De Martino’s sharpshooting and Brandon’s timely mid-range jumper restored Hibernians’ cushion.

Dabic sealed the game with a second-chance layup, finishing with a game-high 17 points. Athleta fought until the end, but Hibernians’ defensive composure and key offensive plays ensured their victory.