Hibs Medsea fought back on Sunday to level the final play-offs series after winning game two 55-41. The Women’s League champions will now emerge from Sunday’s decider at Ta’ Qali.
Joselle Cardona, back from injury, was handed the task to mark Luxol’s top-scorer Steffi DeMartino. Cardona’s contribution proved decisive as the Luxol hot-shot only managed a mere six points on the day.
While Luxol’s young team crumbled under pressure, Hibs looked more organised on court, passing the ball around better in attack even though regular playmaker Kerstin Baldacchino was unavailable on the day.
The first quarter ended 9-9 but Hibs pulled slightly ahead in the opening minutes of the second session to open a 23-17 lead at half-time.
Midway through the third quarter, another seven-point run saw Hibs increase their lead to start the last 10 minutes 40-27 to the good.
With Luxol unable to cancel that deficit, Hibs made good use of possession to preserve their lead and dash their opponents’ hopes of a clean sweep in the final.
Next fixtures
Tomorrow: Men’s League 7.45 p.m. Siġġiewi vs Luxol.
Friday: Men’s League 7.45 p.m. Siġġiewi vs Athleta.
Sunday: Women’s League final (game 3) 2.30 p.m. Hibs vs Luxol. Men’s League 4.15 p.m. Athleta vs Luxol.