Thanks to their victory over Hibs, Honey Athleta finished phase one of the women’s St James League in top position and now these same two sides will clash again in the semi-final play-offs .

The other semi-final will be contested by Caffe Moak Luxol and PAVI Depiro who both won their weekend matches against Starlites and Phoenix, respectively.

Hibs opened a 9-6 lead in the opening quarter but five consecutive points saw Honey Athleta in front.

Until the interval, the match was a close affair with Athleta only enjoying a slim 21-20 lead.

Hibs’ downfall came at the start of the third quarter as Athleta upped their game significantly to open a 45-27 lead before the last 10-minute session got underway.

Hibs tried hard to save the match but their efforts proved fruitless as Athleta emerged winners, 53-41.

Though playing without Steffi DeMartino, Luxol were still too good for Starlites who were expected to offer a stronger challenge.

After a balanced opening, ten consecutive points midway through the second quarter allowed Luxol to change ends 33-20 ahead.

With Starlites’ reaction failing to materialise, Luxol romped home to a 78-44 win.

Despite playing without Sam Brincat, Depiro found no problem in beating Phoenix.

Phoenix potted the first six points but Depiro came roaring back to hit 17 consecutive points to change ends 39-13 ahead.

Depiro continued to dictate matters after that for a clear 78-40 victory.

Standings: Athleta 19 (9-1), Luxol 18 (8-2), Depiro 16 (6-4), Hibs 14 (4-6), Starlites 13 (3-7), Phoenix 10 (0-10).

Top scorers: C. Woodley (Hibs) 223, P. Bright (Luxol) 221, I. Ofamata (Athleta) 191, P. Phelps (Starlites) 190, S. DeMartino (Luxol) 148.

Louis Borg Cup final: Sunday (first leg) 14.45 Luxol vs Depiro. March 19 (second leg) 14.45 Depiro vs Luxol.