Hibernians need only three points from their remaining four matches to retain their women's league championship after they defeated Mosta 4-0 on Sunday.

By virtue of this latest success, the champions have extended their lead over rivals Birkirkara to seven points. The Stripes lost further ground in the title race when they were held to a goalless draw by Melita.

Asserting their authority in the match from the early stages, Hibernians went into the break one goal ahead. Tessie Agius may have given the Paolites an early lead but her effort hit the crossbar. However, Dionne Tonna put Hibs in front when her low shot had the better of Mosta goalkeeper Farrugia.

On the resumption, Hibs kept up the pressure and managed to find their opponents' net on three occasions through Joanne Vella (39), Dorianne Theuma (49) and Chantalle Grech (88).

The other match between Birkirkara and Melita developed into a drab affair with very little goalmouth action. The best chance fell to the Amateurs when a Maria Coppola shot finished just wide.

Birkirkara tried hard to break their opponents' rearguard but they only threatened once through Catherine Camilleri whose shot was well saved by Axiaq.

Leading scorers: D. Theuma (Hibs) 17 goals; J. Vella (Hibs), E. Agliano (Birkirkara) 9; C. Camilleri (Birkirkara) 8; S. Caruana (Hibs) 7.

Next fixtures: Sunday, March 16 - 9 a.m. Hibs vs Rabat; 10.30 a.m. Raiders vs Mosta.