Hibernians, new ownership, new investment, new coach and raft of new players and a season opening win against Sliema Wanderers, it all looked so promising.
Since then a loss to Marsaxlokk, a point against Zabbar St Patrick, a loss to Valletta and now a draw against Birkirkara.
Five points from their opening five games. Not what supporters were hoping for. But with new structures in place, new players and new coach, it was always going to take time for everything to fall into place. That process is ongoing.
Did this 1-1 draw against Birkirkara instill confidence.
Hibs started brightly, Mbong firing an inviting cross into the box with Santos stretching but just unable to connect.
Good to see Sobcyzk back for Hibs, after being taken off by ambulance last week.
De Souze tried a long range shot when earned a corner but B’kara failed to capitilize.
15 minutes and Hibs forged ahead. Santos crossed from left and Sobcyzk flicked past Ondoa. Sobcyzk’s celebrations were cut short when he went off later with what looked like a shoulder injury.
After the water break it was B’kara on the front foot, asking questions of Hibs defence.
Zach Muscat danced his way past Hibs back line with Shaw doing well to clear the danger.
On the stroke of half time Cardinali kept Hibs lead intact with a fine save.
HT. Birkirkara 0-1 Hibernians.
Birkirkara kept up the pressure in the second half, Cardinali tipping over from Souze who had a busy afternoon for B’kara.
Water break and disaster for Hibs. A slack back-pass from Mbong gave B’kara a sniff of a chance and Cardinali did well to block the threat with his body. But he took a heavy knock and had to be substituted. On came Sanchez.
77 mind, B’kara launched another attack and Sasere headed past Sanchez to level the score.
The goal had been coming, fair reward for their possession and pressing.
Hibs managed to regroup but could not find a winner.
1-1 it finished. A thrilling game for neutrals but nerve wrecking for supporters.
The draw lifts Birkirkara up to fifth but sees Hibs drop down to ninth in VBet Malta Premier.
