Despite being heavily depleted, Hamrun Spartans concluded their Opening Round campaign on a high note with an impressive 3-0 win against Hibernians, a result that should significantly boost their morale ahead of the Closing Round set to begin in January.

 

Hibernians, on the other hand, fell short after a strong start in previous matches, where they secured maximum points against Mosta and Birkirkara.

 

Hamrun’s assistant coach Alessandro Longo faced a challenging lineup decision due to the suspension of Elionay, Luke Montebello, and Raphael Lopes, in addition to injuries sidelining key players such as Emerson Marcelina, Roko Prsa, and Shaisen Attard. However, the Spartans welcomed back Joseph Mbong and Mayron, with Steve Borg making a rare start.

 

Hibernians coach Branko Nisevic made one key change, reinstating Bjorn Kristensen in place of Higor Gabriel.

 

Hibernians had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 13th minute when Steve Borg fouled Miullen in the penalty area. However, Jurgen Degabriele’s penalty was superbly turned into a corner by Hamrun goalkeeper Celio.

 

The Spartans capitalized on their next big chance in the 28th minute. Talison’s pinpoint corner from the left found Kean Scicluna, who rose above the defense to head the ball past Hugo Sacco, giving Hamrun the lead.

 

The first half ended on a sour note for both teams as Hamrun’s Juan Corbalan and Hibernians’ Pedro Henrique Nunes and Bjorn Kristensen were forced off due to injuries. Hibernians opted to play the remaining minutes of the half with ten men, preserving substitution options for the second period.

 

Both teams traded possession in the second half, but Hamrun proved more clinical. In the 75th minute, goalkeeper Celio launched a long ball to Talison, who outpaced the Hibernians defense and slotted a diagonal shot past Sacco.

 

A minute later, Joseph Mbong nearly added another with a powerful shot that was turned into a corner by Sacco. However, on the 79th minute, Mbong delivered a stunning overhead kick to seal the 3-0 victory.

 

The match ended on a contentious note as Miullen was sent off for Hibernians following a clash involving multiple players, leaving his side to finish with ten men.