HIBS-2, QORMI-2

Premier League leaders Qormi and Hibernians, the reigning champions, had to settle for a point each after drawing 2-2 in a combative match that also produced two red cards.

After Mario Muscat had foiled Camilo with a top-notch save, Qormi nosed ahead after 24 minutes.

Stefan Giglio, making his debut for Qormi after joining on loan from Valletta, set up Alfred Effiong who finished his diagonal run with a low shot past the advancing Muscat.

Qormi midfielder Keith Fenech denied Hibs an equaliser when cleared Aaron Xuereb’s header off the line but the champions levelled matters on 33 minutes. Muscat’s long kick reached Etienne Barbara who shrugged off Roderick Sammut’s tackle and drove the ball past Matthew Farrugia.

Scoring chances were rare in the second half but the match exploded in the 68th minute.

Both sides were reduced to 10 men after Qormi midfieldcer Keith Fenech and Hibs’ Barbara were sent off after they nearly came to blows.

Qormi regained the lead 12 minutes from time. Camilo scored from the penalty spot after Hibs goalkeeper Muscat brought down Effiong who was clean through.

Hibs refused to give in and their efforts were rewarded four minutes from the end when Andrew Cohen fired a strong shot past Matthew Farrugia.

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