Hibernians have opened a three-point lead at the top of the table after narrowly beating title rivals Balzan 2-1 in a thrilling FXDD Premier Division encounter, played in front of a sizeable crowd at the Corradino pavilion.

After a goalless first half, Rui Almeida put Hibernians ahead. He advanced on the left flank before firing an accurate shot that sailed into the net.

Balzan restored parity after an elaborate move that was finished off by Romanian Gabriel Dobre.

However, less than a minute later, Hibernians were awarded a free-shot. Xavier Saliba’s first attempt was stopped by the keeper but from the rebound, the Paola side’s captain hit home to clinch the winner.

Hibs had former national coach Kevin Mifsud and Brazilian Celino Alves making their debut against Balzan who quickly made up for their upset to the champions by thrashing mid-table side Melita 13-0 in their next match.

This was a perfect response from Dobre’s boys as they dominated Melita, sending a clear message that they remain one of the top contenders for the main honours.

In other matches, San Ġwann and Ħamrun Spartans had the better of Melita (4-2) and Mosta (9-2) respectively as Qormi moved on the 15-point mark following a hard-fought 5-4 win over Vittoriosa.

Qormi’s goals came from Mohammed Abdallah (2), Mark Mizzi, Ismael Achami and Alen Medati. Clive Calleja (2), Luke Stivala and Kenneth Spiteri were the scorers for Vittoriosa.

Żabbar maintained their good form of late with a 13-10 win over Swieqi. Frankie Xerri struck a hat-trick for the winners.

Meanwhile, in the big match from the First Division, Qrendi came from behind to beat Gżira 4-2 and stretch their winning run to 10 games.

Gżira broke the deadlock with a Leo Brincat goal but Qrendi equalised through Bertram Azzopardi.

Chris Bezzina put the Maroons back in front but Qrendi showed their true worth after the break and hit the target three times through Gordon Zammit, Ronald Spina and Antonello Brincat to seal a dramatic victory.

Premier Division

Hibernians 30; Balzan, Luxol 27; Pembroke, San Ġwann 18; Ħamrun, Qormi 15; Żabbar, Melita 12; Mosta 11; Żurrieq 9; Vittoriosa 7; Luqa 6; Birżebbuġa 4; Swieqi 3.

First Division

Qrendi 31; Gżira 22; Zebbuġ, Kalkara 19; Naxxar 17; Fgura 16; Msida 13; Valletta 12; Sirens, Marsaskala 10; Siġġiewi 6; Mqabba, Sta Luċija 5.

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