Birkirkara successfully defended the BOV Women’s League title after brushing aside rivals Hibernians 4-1 on the final day of the season to finish four points clear of the Paolites.

This was the first league title for Birkirkara coach Melania Bajada who replaced Shawn Meilak at the start of the 2017/18 season. She also becomes the first female coach to claim a winning title.

The Stripes were in a class of their own as they opened a four-goal lead before Dorianne Theuma pulled one back for Hibs in the closing stages of the game, but Birkirkara were already home and dry.

Stephania Farrugia, who was named MFPA Women’s player of the year for the third straight time earlier this week, opened the score for Birkirkara, netting her eighth goal of the season after 25 minutes. 

Bajada’s team continued to push for a second and they made their pressure count when Gabriella Zahra doubled the team’s lead just before half-time. 

After the change of ends, the match maintained the same script with the Stripes adding two more goals through youth player Veronique Mifsud before Theuma scored the consolation goal for the 12-time championship winners. Elsewhere, Mġarr United came from behind to earn a 2-1 win over Raiders (Luxol).

Monique Sultana opened the score for the Violets before the Greens netted twice in the final quarter of the game. Rebecca D’Agostino converted from the penalty spot while Brenda Borg sealed the win two minutes from time.

In the other game, Kirkop United defeated Tarxien Rainbows 4-2. A Lara Theuma own goal opened the account for the Reds before goals from Demi Magrin, Liis Pello and Liivi Sormus sealed the points.

Kailey Willis grabbed both goals for Tarxien.

Final standings

Championship Pool: Birkirkara 49; Hibernians 45; Mġarr United 32; Raiders (Luxol) 28; Kirkop United 18; Tarxien Rainbows 8. 

Relegation Pool: Swieqi United 22; Fgura United 11; Mosta 4.