Honey Athleta continue to lead the women’s league standings after their victory over Depiro as Luxol consolidated their second place after defeating Hibs.

Depiro looked a weakened team without the inspirational Sam Brincat.

The game started on a quiet note with both teams recording a low shooting percentage but then a couple of Beverly Zammit three-pointers helped Depiro to lead 11-10 at the end of the first quarter.

However, Depiro fired blanks as the second quarter got underway and Athleta profited to take a 22-16 half-time lead.

After falling further behind, Depiro came back to start the last ten minutes 32-23 behind. Their comeback bid continued but after reducing the gap to five points, 33-28, Athleta stepped up a gear to seal a 38-30 victory.

On Sunday, Luxol continued with their good work after inflicting another defeat (71-52) on Hibs.

After a rather low-key start, Luxol came more into the picture and after leading 22-17 at the end of the first quarter, they kept Hibs at a distance to change ends 40-30 ahead.

Hibs’ hopes were dashed in the final minutes of the third quarter as Luxol’s lead increased to 58-38. The Paolites never recovered from that setback.

In another match, Starlites chalked up their second victory over lowly Phoenix to move a point behind Hibs and stay in contention for the play-offs.

Starlites shot in front early on and never looked back despite having chief points-getter Rena Phelps on the bench. They changed ends 33-9 ahead and held command of play for a 64-34 victory.

Standings: Athleta 17 (8-1), Luxol 16 (7-2), Depiro 14 (5-4), Hibs 13 (4-5), Starlites 12 (3-6), Phoenix 9 (0-9).

Next matches: Saturday, 14.45 Luxol vs Starlites. Sunday, 11.15 Phoenix vs Depiro, 14.45 Athleta vs Hibs.