Birkirkara, Hibernians fire blanks in drab encounter at Gozo Stadium

HIBERNIANS 0

BIRKIRKARA 0

The result did little to help either side’s position in the standings as Birkrikara remained second on 17 points, seven clear of the relegation zone.

However, Hibernians are in a might dangerous position as they move on the 13-point mark and will await the result of the clash between direct rivals Żabbar St Patrick and Tarxien Rainbows and Mosta vs Sliema to see if they stay out of the drop zone.

The match was devoid of scoring chances as both teams seemed more concerned not conceding than scoring a goal.

The fans at the Gozo stadium had to wait till the 28th minute for the first chance when Hibs forward Cleiton sped inside the area but his cross-shot was not met by Denys Norenkov in front of a gaping goal.

Two minutes later, Norenkov hit a thumping drive that was pushed away by goalkeeper Martinez.

Birkrikara finally threatened on 44 minutes when Stephan Makoma’s shot flew over.

After the break, Birkirkara started to threaten more with Makoma again seeing his effort finishing over the bar while at the other end Dexter Xuereb fluffed his shot from the edge of the area.  

Hibs goalkeeper Laurentiu Branescu had to be alert to push away Neil Micallef’s shot while Kemar Reid saw his inswinger finished just wide.

The last chance of the match came Hibs way when Ali Diakite saw his shot pushed away by Martinez as the stalemate prevailed.