Hibernians were forced to settle for a frustrating point in the VBET Malta Premier Opening Round after substitute Thomas Melillo struck two minutes from time to rescue a 1-1 draw for Żabbar St. Patrick.
Dream Start for Paolites
Hibernians burst out of the gates at the Centenary Stadium and made their intent clear within seconds. The deadlock was broken just three minutes into the match when Jamie Jonathan Wahling pounced on an early opening to slot past the Żabbar goalkeeper, capping off a blistering start for the home side.
For much of the first half, Hibernians maintained territorial control, pressing high and limiting Żabbar St. Patrick’s ability to build out from the back. Despite dominating possession, the Paolites struggled to extend their advantage before the halftime whistle.
Żabbar Push and Stun Late
The second half proved to be a far more physical and open affair. Żabbar St. Patrick introduced fresh legs from the bench to shift the momentum, throwing men forward in search of an equalizer.
Hibernians looked set to hold on for all three points as the match entered its closing stages. However, in the 88th minute, a quick attacking move from Żabbar unlocked the Hibernians defence, allowing substitute Thomas Melillo to turn the ball home and ignite wild celebrations among the visiting supporters.
Both sides pushed frantically during stoppage time, but neither could find a winner before the final referee’s whistle.
Match Summary
- Competition: VBET Malta Premier (Opening Round – Matchday 3)
- Venue: Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali
- Final Score: Hibernians FC 1–1 Żabbar St. Patrick FC (HT: 1–0)
- Goals:
- 1–0 Jamie Jonathan Wahling (3′)
- 1–1 Thomas Melillo (88′)
