Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1113313
32 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 5 MAY 2019 BOV PREMIER LEAGUE SPORTS WARREN ZAMMIT IN a thrilling decider, Valletta retained the Premier League as they managed to defeat Hiber- nians 4-3 following a penalty shoot-out. The last match of the season was a highly anticipated en- counter between two excellent sides who won a lot in recent years. Valletta had the title in their grasp; however, they failed to beat Hamrun and thus the championship had to be decid- ed through a decider. As expected, both teams had their supporters behind them as a record 9,544 spectators watched the match from the National Stadium. Gilbert Agius was forced not to play Joseph Zerafa and Ibra- him Saleh as they were suspend- ed. In addition, Matteo Piciollo is currently on Valletta's injury list. Meanwhile, Hibernians were without Jurgen Degabriele. The prolific striker is still recovering from a long-term injury. Hibernians made an excellent start to the match and forged ahead after 13 minutes. Isaac Ntow's delivery from the left was met by Taylon Marcolino who headed the ball past Henry Bonello. The Paolites were exhibiting better ideas and had a good op- portunity to double their advan- tage on the 20th minute. Mar- colino squared the ball for Jake Grech and the latter fired a shot from the edge of the penalty area that was parried by Henry Bonello. Valletta replied a minute later through Kyrian Nwoko. The Maltese forward attempted to divert the ball inside the net fol- lowing a long ball forward, but his effort was neutralised by Marko Jovicic. Miguel Angel Alba lost a golden opportunity to equalise Valletta beat Hibernians to win their 25th Premier League title PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOMINIC BORG Valletta Hibernians 4 3