Hibernians opened their Bottom Six campaign with a commanding performance, brushing aside Melita in a display that emphasized their superiority and intent to comfortably navigate this stage of the league.

 

The Paolites, clearly operating on a different level than their lower-table counterparts, now lead the Bottom Six standings with 20 points. With their depth and quality, Hibernians appear poised for a routine run-in, far removed from any relegation worries.

 

Melita, on the other hand, continue to face mounting pressure. Still second from bottom with just 10 points, they urgently need results to avoid slipping into the relegation zone and secure their spot in the top tier next season.

 

Hibernians wasted no time in asserting their dominance, taking the lead within minutes of kickoff. Dexter Xuereb sent in a precise cross that Khevin Fraga met with a clinical finish to give the Paolites an early edge.

 

Branko Nisevic’s men kept control throughout the first half, dictating possession and tempo. Melita attempted to find a way back through quick transitions but struggled to penetrate Hibernians’ disciplined defense.

 

Midway through the opening half, Hibernians doubled their lead with a well-crafted move. Lucas Villela slipped a clever ball into the box for Alex Bruno, who finished from close range to solidify their grip on the match.

 

The Paolites continued to threaten, nearly scoring a third from a corner, only for Melita keeper Gosef Mizzi to make a crucial intervention.

 

Melita’s first real attempt came just before halftime, as Andre Costa fired from distance, but his shot lacked the accuracy to trouble Hibernians goalkeeper Pablo Sanchez. The Paolites entered the break with a deserved two-goal advantage.

 

After the restart, Melita looked to respond, with Camilo Andres testing Sanchez, but the Hibernians shot-stopper was equal to the challenge.

 

Soon after, Hibernians added a third in a swift counterattack. Villela capitalized on a loose ball and struck a low shot that hit the post and bounced off Mizzi into the net – a fortunate moment that capped a dominant outing.

 

Melita’s frustrations grew as Jean Pierre Attard forced another fine save from Sanchez, who remained unbeaten throughout.

 

Late in the game, substitute Jurgen Degabriele nearly added a fourth, but after his first effort was blocked, he dragged the rebound wide.

 

In the end, Hibernians cruised to an emphatic win, sending a clear message that they intend to breeze through the Bottom Six phase.