Qormi’s Jonathan Bondin (right) in a duel with Jackson Lima, of Hibs. Photo: Paul Zammit Cutajar

Hibernians are still on cloud nine after walking away with the Premier League title but coach Branko Nisevic is in no doubt that his feted players have rediscovered their focus ahead of their FA Trophy semi-final against Qormi this evening at the National Stadium (kick-off 5pm).

“We need to remain focused,” Nisevic said.

“The players have been good in training. I have been stressing the importance of keeping feet on the ground.

“The title celebrations are almost over now as the club and fans have been in festive mood for the past three weeks.

“I think that the players have now switched back to competitive mode.

“They are all aware that this is a one-day competition, meaning that if we play to the best of our abilities, we will go through to the final.”

Although Hibs are seen as favourites to advance to the final as they bid to complete a league and cup double, Nisevic is not dismissing the threat posed by Qormi who have earned the tag of cup specialists after reaching back-to-back finals in 2012 and 2013, albeit on both occasions they lost 3-1 to the Paolites.

“We’re taking Qormi seriously. The last time we played them in the league, it was not an easy match and we only won 2-1,” Nisevic said.

“We certainly can’t relax.”

Nisevic must check on the fitness of Brazilian defender Rodolfo Soares who went out with a hamstring strain in the first half of Saturday’s game against Valletta.

Jonathan Peason, who also plays at the back, is doubtful due to a nagging injury.

Mark Miller and his Qormi troops stand between Hibs and a place in the May 23 final.

The English coach finds himself trying to devise a plot to knock out the club where he spent four eventful seasons.

While Miller readily acknowledges that Hibs are the favourites, he is backing his team to ruffle the champions’ feathers.

“We’ve got nothing to lose,” Miller said.

“We’re also on a bit of a roll. The players are working really hard in training, they are enjoying themselves and hopefully we can do it.

“I personally wouldn’t turn up if I didn’t believe that we can win this match.

“I’m looking at training to see which players are the most hungry to play.

“We’ve got to be on our game and hope that Hibs have an off day. If Hibs are on their game and we are not, then we don’t have a chance but if both teams are on form, then it’s going to be difficult match for both.

“We know that we’re facing some top players but this is a cup game.”

Qormi coach Miller can’t bank on a full squad tomorrow as Swedish defender Billy Berntsson must serve a one-match ban.

Left-back Emerson Vella is still sidelined with injury while Clifford Gauci and Marcelino are struggling with groin problems.

Hibernians reached the FA Trophy semi-finals after coming through a difficult encounter with Balzan, winning 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Qormi trounced Sirens 7-0.

Previous encounters: Hibernians vs Qormi 2-1, 6-0, 2-1.