Depiro fight back to beat St James

Leaders Hibs Medsea gained their fourth straight victory in the league to stay clear at the top.

Rivals Depiro came from behind to overpower St James Hospital in the final quarter while Luxol accounted for Stunners.

Strengthened by the inclusion of Russian Natalia Bagaskeya, St James had a good start to lead 15-12 at the end of the first quarter. Depiro battled back in the final minutes before half-time to go 26-24 in front.

St James managed to turn the balance in their favour in the final minutes of the third quarter, 38-34 the score ahead of the last session. Suddenly, Depiro found their shooting touch and a 13-2 break proved decisive as they moved 55-46 ahead. St James then lost their foreigner and Depiro held on for a 57-49 victory.

Despite playing their second match in two days, Hibs were never troubled by a depleted Honey Athleta. After ending the first quarter 15-8 to the good, Hibs extended their lead to 27-10 at half-time.

Hibs continued to press home their superiority as Athleta were forced to play the final three minutes with four players on court. Hibs won 75-22.

Luxol overcame the absence of several players to keep up their challenge with a 59-36 victory over Stunners.

Standings: Hibs 8 (4-0); Depiro 7 (3-1); Luxol 7 (3-1); St James 5 (1-3); Athleta 5 (1-3); Stunners 4 (0-4).

Top scorers: E. Moore ( Luxol) 70; R. Camilleri (Depiro) 57; L. Bezzina 56 (Hibs), M. Sciortino ( Luxol) 49; J. Cardona (Hibs) 45.

Next fixtures: Sunday 12.45 p.m. St James vs Athleta; 2.30 p.m. Depiro vs Luxol. Monday 12.45 p.m. Stunners vs Hibs.