Honey Athleta reached the women’s Louis Borg Cup semi-finals after surprising Hibernians over both legs of the weekend preliminary round.

This was the most expected clash of the round and predictions proved accurate as both matches developed into tight affairs.

In the first leg, Athleta finished the first quarter 12-10 ahead and went on to change ends 26-23 in front. Hibs took the lead midway through the third session but Athleta came roaring back to beat Hibs 52-45.

The Paolites tried to cancel their deficit as early as possible in the second leg but Athleta stayed in touch and also led 25-23 at half-time.

Hibs tried hard to beat the Athleta resistance but the latter hung on to their lead before the last session got underway (37-35).

The balance was never broken as Athleta went on to beat the Paolites a second time (50-47) for a 102-92 aggregate win.

Easy rides

Luxol and Depiro McDonalds are also through to the semi-finals as Alyssa Ashley Loyola received a bye.

Luxol were never troubled by Phoenix Qormi as they were in control in all four quarters of the first leg which they won 73-48.

The second match followed the same pattern with Luxol reaching the next round of the competition on a 142-90 aggregate score after a 69-42 win.

In the other LBC tie, Starlites could only offer token resistance to Depiro who booked their place in the next round with a clear 162-65 aggregate in favour.