Degabriele propels 10-man Hibs into quarter-finals

HIBERNIANS       3XEWKIJA TIGERS 0The clash between the champions of Malta and Gozo went Hibs’ way as the Paolites defeated Xewkija Tigers 3-0 despite playing with 10 men for more than hour.  With this win, Hibernians have secured a berth in the quarter-finals of the BOOST Diesel FA Trophy. It was Xewkija who threatened first. Shaun Bajada’s cross-shot from a corner sailed menacingly towards goal but Andrei Agius produced an acrobatic goal-line clearance. Hibernians forged ahead on 17 minutes. Joseph Mbong’s perfect cross from the right was met by Joao Moreira who headed past goalkeeper Franklin Vella. Three minutes later, Hibs went 2-0 up. Mbong was the provider once again as he served Jurgen Degabriele who turned well before hitting home. The Maltese champions looked to have suffered a setback when Moreira received a straight red card in the 26th minute after he appeared to push Manwel Xerri in an off-the-ball incident. But any hopes Xewkija of forcing their way back into the match vanished when Hibs increased the lead in the 69th minute. Degabriele produced another crisp finish after receiving from Clayton Failla. VALLETTA              1PIETÀ HOTSPURS 0 An early goal from defender Ryan Camilleri was enough for Valletta to dismiss the challenge of Division One side Pietà Hotspurs and reach the quarter-finals of the BOOST Diesel FA Trophy quarter-finals. Thus, Valletta completed the quarter-final line-up, joining Balzan, Birkirkara, Hibernians, Lija Athletic, Sliema Wanderers and Division One sides Qrendi and Żejtun Corinthians in Monday’s draw. The all-important goal came after just two minutes. Miguel Angel Alba’s corner from the right appeared to be diverted towards the far post where the unmarked Ryan Camilleri fired a low shot past goalkeeper Miguel Montfort. Minutes later, Alba delivered another inviting cross from a corner but Santiago Malano lifted his shot over the bar. Pietà were finding it hard to create chances as Valletta remained on top. Alba missed a sitter, shooting wide from close in after being teed up by Kyrian Nwoko close to the half-hour mark. Valletta goalkeeper Nicky Vella produced a good save from Gabriel Mensah’s shot close to the hour mark.