Hibs join Depiro on top

Thanks to their victory over Luxol, Hibs joined Depiro at the top of the standings in the Peugeot League. Last week, Loyola returned to victory while Sliema Wanderers notched their first win of the season after two defeats.

Hibs had pivot Alexis Darmanin unavailable but the side was never unsettled as they cruised home to a third consecutive victory. The match was characterised with both sides enjoying fine patches but in the end it was Hibs' better record from the free-throw line that won them the day.

Hibs had a great start as they took a 20-7 lead by the end of the first quarter. But, after falling further back, 30-9, Luxol found their rhythm to change ends 33-24 behind.

Luxol continued where they had left off before the interval and with a couple of minutes left for the end of the quarter, they forged ahead for the first time - 43-40.

Hibs looked to have reserved their best for the opening stages only but suddenly they regained composure and when Kerstin Micallef fumbled a fast-break, Mario Tabone's girls took advantage and started pulling away.

Luxol had playmaker Micallef fouled out and her team-mates lost most of their focus in attack. Hibs won the match 57-47.

Loyola were never troubled by Kerygma after opening a 20-12 lead at half-time. Kerygma were not able to recover that gap and eventually lost 51-37.

More was expected of SN Suns against Sliema Wanderers in a battle between the two winless sides of the season.

Sliema opened strongly and never looked back to obtain a comfortable 55-21 win.

Standings: Depiro (3-0), Hibs (3-0), Luxol (2-2) 6; Loyola (2-1), Kerygma (1-3) 5; Sliema (1-2), SN Suns (0-4) 4.

Top scorers: B. Zammit (Hibs) 68; A. Sciortino (Luxol) 61; K. Micallef (Luxol) 54; J. Calleja (Kerygma) 50; S. Pace (Depiro) 48.

Tomorrow: Enemalta Shield SFs 6.15 p.m. Loyola vs Hibs, 7.45 p.m. Luxol vs Depiro.

Sunday: 4.15 p.m. final.