Depiro maintain perfect start, Hibs bounce back

Depiro McDonald’s outclassed Honey Athleta to gain their third consecutive win and cement top spot in the league table.

Luxol were never troubled by Starlites Sports Experience while Hibs had the better of Alyssa Ashley Loyola in a balanced contest.

More was expected of Athleta against Depiro. Although they had pivot Madeleine De Martino missing, this was no excuse for Athleta’s poor showing as Depiro dominated from the opening minutes.

After leading 23-13 at the end of the first quarter, Depiro increased their advantage to 44-24 by half-time. With Athleta failing to make a reaction, Depiro cantered home for an 85-51 victory.

Champions Luxol were never tested by Starlites. After changing ends 46-18 ahead, Luxol ran out 94-38 winners.

Hibs returned to winning ways after beating Loyola who conceded their second straight loss.

Loyola were without shooter Sammy Jo Barbara while pivot Joselle Cardona is still injured for Hibs.

Loyola obtained the first seven points only for Hibs to fight back and lead 16-15 by the end of the first quarter. The match developed into a balanced affair with Hibs leading by a single basket at half-time, 30-28.

Loyola went 33-30 in front in the early stages of the third quarter but Hibs recovered to start the last 10 minutes with a five-point advantage, 45-40.

Hibs appeared to be in control after extending their cushion to 56-42 but Loyola had other ideas.

A 13-3 break put Loyola back in contention but Hibs held on to win 63-60.

Standings: Depiro 6 (3-0), Hibs 5 (2-1), Luxol 4 (2-0), Athleta 4 (1-2), Loyola 4 (1-2), Starlites 2 (0-2), Qormi 2 (0-2).

Top scorers: K. Sanga (Hibs) 84, B. Thomas (Loyola) 72, S. DeMartino (Depiro) 65, L. Belche (Depiro) 62, A. Rotomska (Athleta) 52.

Next fixtures: Sunday, St James Hospital Shield final, 16.30 Luxol vs Loyola.