Spartans close in on

Ħamrun Spartans made a giant step towards winning the league title for the eighth time in their history when in the much awaited top of the table match they triumphed against Hibernians. The goal that mattered materialized a minute from the end when Seydou Doumbia converted from the penalty spot.

The match was a balanced affair with neither team dominating the proceedings. A draw result would have been the fairest with the game lacking goal mouth action. This win puts the Spartans five points clear at the top with seven matches left to play.

Ħamrun Spartans went into this match following a precious win against challengers Gżira United in a direct clash played last week. Their opponents Hibernians who were two points adrift prior to this match won in their last outing against Żejtun Corinthians.

Both teams were on an unbeaten run. Ħamrun unbeaten in their last seventeen matches, winning their last six matches. Hibernians also won their last six matches and were on an unbeaten run of ten matches.

Missing for Ħamrun were Joseph Mbong together with Emerson Marcelina and Oyama. On the other hand Stefano Sanderra didn’t encounter such issues since he had practically the full compliment.

In the first round match Hamrun and Hibernians took a point each following a 2-2 draw.

The first part of the match was rather tactical with both teams adopting a prudent approach with play restricted into the midfield area.

Midway through the first half Ħamrun went near when Soares played the ball towards Sasere whose cross found Doumbia whose header ended wide. On the half hour Ħamrun were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area but Soares blasted high over the bar.

A minute from the end of the first half came the Paolites first chance when Gilmar brought Degabriele in an ideal position but his tame shot caused no problems to the Spartans goalkeeper.

The first part of the second half had the same pattern of the first part of the match with both teams failing to hold an upper hand.

Twelve minutes from the end of