Balzan hand Hibernians first defeat of the season to secure top four finish

Soon to be crowned champions Hibernians suffered their first defeat of the season in a match where they had little to play for besides the chance to go on unbeaten for the whole season.

On the other hand Balzan had more to play for knowing that a draw or potentially a full three points would mean moving one step closer to securing a top four finish for the first time in the club's history.

Balzan went in front on 19 minutes when from a cross by Piccioni, ex International forward Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza beat Bonello with a low finish.

Things in the second half continued where they had left off in the first with not many attacking chances with play mostly played in the middle of the pitch.

On 73 minutes howeever, Hibs keeper Bonella floored Luke Sciberras with the referee ordering a penalty.  Henry Bonello was also sent off.  From the penalty spot, Piccioni made it 2-0 for Balzan.

Seven minutes from the end, Hibs managed to get back in the game when Bjorn Kristensen hit the upright off a free kick from Andrew Cohen with the ball ending to Failla's feet who placed the ball into the net.

Balzan all but sealed the issue in injury time when Luke Sciberras was put through after a perfect long pass with Sciberras slotting past substitute keeper Jurgen Borg for a final score of 3-1.

Referee: Evan Boyce

BOV Man of the Match: Gianmarco Piccioni