Hibernians strengthened their grip on this year’s Premier League title race as they edged past Birkirkara 1-0 in front of a packed Hibs Stadium to go seven points clear at the top of the standings.

The Paolites were off to a strong start and after only three minutes the woodwork denied them an opener when Clayton Failla’s cross-shot came off the bar before the Stripes cleared.

But the Hibs struck in their next attempt on nine minutes. Jorginho outmuscled Nikola Vukanac before he teed up Luis Edison who drilled the ball past Birkirkara goalkeeper Justin Haber.

Birkirkara tried to hit back and Zach Muscat burst clear on the right flank before sending a low cross that was somehow cleared by the Paolites defence with the ball falling to Ryan Scicluna who fired over from an inviting position.

On 22 minutes, Edward Herrera made headway on the right flank before sending a dangerous cross towards Rafael Ledesma but the Stripes forward was anticipated by an excellent diving clearance from Andrei Agius.

Birkirkara tried to raise their game on the restart and on 53 minutes Haruna tried his luck from the distance but his swerving drive was well blocked by Henry Bonello, the Hibs goalkeeper.

The Paolites responded on 58 minutes when from a corner action, Failla picked Edison who tried an audacious overhead kick with his shot finishing just wide.

Hibs almost sealed the points six minutes from time when Jorginho did well to control the ball inside the area before hitting a swerving drive that drew a fine one-handed save from Haber.

In time added on Hibs had another chance to close the issue when Edison released Jurgen Degabriele, who had just replaced Jorginho, who was clean through but the young Hibs forward saw his effort blocked by Haber.

Hibs striker Luis Edison was voted as the BOV Player of the match.