Although the first phase of the women’s championship is not over yet, the teams who have qualified for the semi-final play-offs are already known.

Luxol, the reigning champions, are joined by PAVI Depiro, Alyssa Ashley Loyola and Hibs in the race for the 2012-13 title.

Luxol, who finished the regular season on top with only one loss from 12 matches, will play fourth-placed Hibs and Depiro face Loyola.

In the latest round of matches, Luxol played Loyola who started better to open a 21-15 lead by the end of the first quarter.

Luxol levelled at 21-all after steadying their ship. Loyola’s reaction saw them 32-25 in front but the champions overturned the deficit to change ends a point ahead, 33-32.

The match continued to be a balanced affair with Loyola regaining the lead to start the last 10 minutes 48-47 ahead.

Then, 11 consecutive points midway through the quarter paved the way for Luxol’s victory with a 13-point margin, 71-58.

Qormi, who had Britanney Thomas back after a three-match suspension, gave Hibs a good run for their money.

Hibs potted the opening eight points but Qormi fought back to narrow the gap,18-17, at the end of the first quarter.

Hibs’ better start to the second 10 minutes saw them regain a seven-point lead 26-19 which they controlled until half-time 40-30.

Qormi tried hard after the interval but their efforts were not enough to thwart the Paolites who administered their advantage to seal a 75-65 win.

Standings: Luxol 23 (11-1), Depiro 22 (10-2), Hibs 19 (7-5), Loyola 18 (7-4), Athleta 13 (3-7), Qormi 13 (1-11), Starlites 12 (1-10).

Top scorers: B. Thomas (Loyola) 371, B. Thomas (Qormi) 284, L. Belcher (Depiro) 237, S. Demartino (Depiro) 233, M. Williams (Luxol) 206.

League SFs (Game 1) Sunday – 11.15 Luxol vs Hibs, 13.00 Depiro vs Loyola.