Hibernians secured their place in the FA Trophy quarter-finals with a dominant victory over Qala Saints at the Gozo Stadium. A first-half brace from Lucas Villela set the Paolites on course before Alex Bruno sealed the win with a third goal early in the second half.

 

The match began in ideal fashion for Hibernians, who took the lead within five minutes after being awarded a penalty. Although Alex Bruno’s spot-kick was saved by goalkeeper Owen Attard, Villela reacted quickly to slot home the rebound.

 

Hibernians continued to control proceedings, with Attard forced into action again on 19 minutes to deny Jurgen Degabriele’s inswinging free kick, before Villela fired over from the loose ball. However, Qala Saints grew into the game, using their quick transitions to trouble the Hibernians defense. Gabriel Cardona twice tested goalkeeper Pablo Sanchez, who produced excellent saves in the 23rd and 27th minutes to keep his side in front.

 

Five minutes before halftime, Hibernians doubled their advantage. Degabriele delivered a pinpoint cross, allowing Villela the time and space to head past Attard for his second goal of the match.

 

The Paolites maintained their intensity after the break, extending their lead just four minutes into the second half. Degabriele’s cross found Bjorn Kristensen, whose powerful shot was saved by Attard, but Alex Bruno pounced on the rebound to make it 3-0.

 

Kristensen nearly got on the scoresheet himself on the hour mark, narrowly missing the target after another delivery from Degabriele, who was soon replaced by Ukrainian debutant Stanislav Sorokin.

 

Qala had a rare opportunity to pull one back in the 72nd minute when a defensive lapse from Hibernians allowed Nicholas Inguanez a sight of goal, but Sanchez was quick to block the danger and preserve his clean sheet.

 

With a commanding performance, Hibernians comfortably secured their spot in the next round, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.