Hibernians 2-2 Valletta

The Maltese Premier League entered into it's second round of games with the main clash being the 2008/09 champions (Hibernians) at home to 2007/08 champions (Valletta). Both sides won their opener and looked to make it two wins from two but ended up sharing the points.

The game began as a very open affair but neither side really created any chances in the first quarter of an hour. It was after this that both the goalkeepers began to be challenged. In fact it was the away side who had the best of the chances and even had a penalty shout turned down on nineteen minutes. Just before half-time the referee was not so hesitant in pointing to the spot and Denni duly gave Valletta the lead.

Most thought this would be the last action of the half but not so! A couple of minutes into stoppage time Hibernians got the equaliser through a Matt Clarke header after a free kick was delivered from the right by Andrew Cohen. Three minutes later Hibernians scored again and once more thanks to a Cohen free kick. This time Herrera hit the back of the net at the second time of asking.

The second half was all about Valletta finding an equaliser but despite all the pressure only managed to do so ten minutes from time when Scerri headed home from a Sammut corner.

Valletta may feel a little hard done by as both Hibernians goals came within a couple of minutes of each other and for a long time it was the away side who dominated. However, it doesn't matter how or when the goals are scored only that they went in! The Maltese premier League may not be of the best quality in Europe and may arguable be one of the worst but is an enjoyable league to follow for its competitive value. Well worth keeping an eye on!