Paola Hibs Candy saw off the stiff challenge of Fleur-de-Lys in a decider to retain the women’s title for the ninth year running.

The league success was Hibs’ 26th major honour in the last nine years.

Last weekend’s decisive game was characterised by a number of unforced errors, especially by Fleur-de-Lys in their service.

In the opening set, FDL stormed into a 10-1 lead thanks mainly to Sara El Gasi’s services. They continued to put pressure on their opponents with well-built attacks but Hibs improved and even managed to level the score.

Nevertheless, it was FDL who won the first set 25-23, thanks mainly to the fine showings of Thais Gatt and Isabel Cutajar.

Fleur-de-Lys looked well-placed to win their first title. They made a good start to the second and third sets, leading Paola Hibs by four or five points at one stage, but the champions never wilted.

Powerful spikes by Alison Borg and Daniela Bonnici put the Paola side back in contention.

FDL coach David Bonnici tried to reverse the tide by effecting some substitutions but Hibs were in control to win both sets 25-22, 25-16.

Once again, FDL started the fourth set on a sound footing but good teamwork by Hibs saw them through, winning the set 25-19 to secure the title.

In the second division, Mellieħa beat Tatara Rabat 3-0.

Mellieħa were superior through-out the game as Mark Soler’s girls showed the better ideas.

With this win, Mellieħa moved a step closer to winning the second division league championship and promotion.