Recap

Caffe Moak Luxol asserted their dominance over Valletta Lionesses with a comprehensive victory in the MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League. A stellar performance from Brandy Lynn Huffhines, supported by Josephine Diaby and an energetic bench, underpinned Luxol’s commanding display.

The game began with the Violets establishing control early. Huffhines opened the scoring with a fast-break layup and quickly followed up with back-to-back three-pointers, building a 9-0 lead. Luxol’s defensive intensity stifled Valletta, and Diaby added to the margin with a jump shot. Valletta struggled to find their rhythm, with Aleksandra Nikishina’s free throws and a late tip-in from Alexia Parnis offering brief respite. Huffhines closed the quarter with another three-pointer, giving Luxol a 15-6 advantage.

In the second quarter, The Citizens attempted to mount a comeback, led by Olessia Malashenko’s three-pointers. Malashenko’s scoring cut the deficit to seven, but Luxol responded with contributions from Sarah Fenech Pace and Anna Fenech Pace. Despite Nikishina’s consistent work at the free-throw line, Luxol’s fast-break opportunities kept them ahead. The half ended with Roderick Vella’s side leading 30-24, as Valletta failed to capitalise on key possessions.

The third quarter saw Luxol pull away decisively. Huffhines hit another three-pointer early on, and Diaby’s composed shooting in the paint extended the margin. Nikishina and Malashenko fought valiantly for Valletta, but turnovers proved costly, allowing Luxol to dominate in transition. Vanya Baldacchino was instrumental off the bench, adding nine points in quick succession. By the end of the quarter, Luxol had surged to a 54-32 lead, effectively putting the game out of Valletta’s reach.

Luxol’s bench depth shone in the final quarter, with Rebecca Naudi and Nolene Vella contributing effectively. Huffhines reached the 25-point mark with a combination of free throws and perimeter shooting. Valletta’s attempts to claw back were thwarted by Luxol’s suffocating defence and superior ball movement. Late points from Caruana and Naudi added gloss to an already dominant performance. Luxol’s lead grew steadily, and they closed out the game with a comfortable 46-point margin.