HIBERNIANS - 2, TARXIEN RAINBOWS - 0

Hibernians overcame the early dismissal of goalkeeper Jurgen Borg as they produced a strong second-half performance to defeat neighbours Tarxien Rainbows 2-0 in the derby.

The early signs were gloomy for Hibs as they lost Borg who gave away a penalty after just five minutes but Ayrton Azzopardi missed from the spot to dampen Tarxien's optimism.

After a goalless first half, Hibs, despite being down to 10 men, turned on the style after the change of ends to overwhelmed Tarxien, scoring two goals in six minutes to open a three-point lead over Valletta who meet Balzan today.

The two pace-setters will go head to head next weekend.
Hibs endured a difficult start as, after only five minutes, they finished with 10 men after goalkeeper Borg was sent off for bringing down Luke Montebello inside the box.

Branko Nisevic, the Hibs coach, withdrew striker Jorginho and brought on reserve goalkeeper Rudy Briffa who was relieved to see Ayrton Azzopardi's penalty-kick sail wide of the post.

The remainder of the first half produced little goalmouth action but Hibs went close when Gilmar's swerving shot casme off the upright.

Hibs began the second half on the attack. Jorge was inches wide after being put through by Gilmar and Bjorn Kristensen was denied by Andrea Cassar but Hibs opened the scoring on 55 minutes.

Clayton Failla's cross, from a corner, came off the crossbar but the ball landed near the far post and Andrew Cohen hit home.

The champions remained on top, extending their lead on 61 minutes when Andrei Agius headed home from another Failla corner.

Late in the game, Tarxien should have pulled one back but Briffa repelled Montebello's effort.

Failla, the Hibs' left-back, was named BOV player of the match.