Athleta gear up for decisive match against Hibs
Leaders Luxol beat Depiro
Luxol had the better of Depiro McDonald’s in a top-of-the-table clash last weekend as Honey Athleta clinched the victory they needed against Phoenix Qormi to stay in contention for a place in the semi-final play-offs.
Alyssa Ashley Loyola consolidated third place with victory over Starlites Sports Experience.
Depiro left much to be desired in the opening quarter where Luxol, with Robin Murphy in superb form, dictated matters to end the session 22-11 ahead.
Adrian Mifsud effected several substitutions after that and his move soon started paying dividends for Depiro even though Luxol changed ends 32-19 in front.
Depiro increased their efforts after the interval but Luxol showed they’re the team to beat this season and went on to win the contest 61-45.
Loyola, with Christine Grima making a comeback from injury, never gave Starlites a chance.
They raced into a 15-2 lead and though Starlites improved, Loyola went on to win the match 64-31 after holding a 34-14 half-time lead.
Athleta met little problems to dispose of bottom-placed Qormi before turning sights on their last match against Hibs this evening where the fourth-placed team will be determined.
Athleta’s task is not simple as they need to beat Hibs by at least 14 points to make the semis.
With Alexandra Ratanska again leading the side, Athleta dictated play right from the jumpball and went in at the break leading 37-19.
Qormi were never in the match as Athleta went on to complete the job with relative ease, winning the contest 76-33.
Standings: Luxol 21 (10-1), Depiro 21 (9-3), Loyola 19 (8-3), Hibs 17 (6-5), Athleta 16 (5-6), Starlites 12 (1-10), Qormi 11 (0-11).
Top scorers: D. Johnson (Loyola) 222, R. Murphy (Luxol) 215, R. Ratanska (Athleta) 214, L. Gipson (Hibs) 211, S. DeMartino (Depiro) 195.
Sunday: Play-offs SF (game 1) 13.00 Luxol vs Hibs/Athleta, 14.45 Depiro vs Loyola.