Hibernians showed why they are serious title contenders with a powerful second half and a couple of stunning goals as they romped to a 4-1 win against Valletta.

Jurgen Degabriele started the ball rolling with just five minutes on the clock and the task for Valletta seemed to be even more difficult when Dimech was red-carded for a tackle on Degabriele.

New signing Gilmar was showing his class with neat one-two touches with Degabriele and it was both these players who were a constant threat.

Despite a man short Valletta showed why they can never be dismissed when Ryan Fenech scrambled home to level the scores.

Hibernians came out after the break and immediately ramped up the pressure on Valletta’s defence with Degabriele and Gilmar again probing and testing City. It felt like only time before Hibs found the net and in fell to Dunstan Vella to nudge Hibs back in front for a lead they were not going to give up.

Gilmar, who was a thorn in Valletta’s side all afternoon showed why Hibs were so glad to have him back in the side.

A quick break down the left hand side and a cross to Gilmar whose first time volley left Bonello stranded.

The Brazilian was not finished though as he latched onto another superb pass at the edge of the box and lobbed the keeper before heading into an empty net.

It was not just the score-line that was impressive. The manner in which Hibernians set out their stall, especially in the second half sounded a shrill warning to all. They mean business.