Unbeaten Stripes extend winning run to nine matches

Champions Birkirkara extended their perfect run after easing past Swieqi United 6-0 in their first league outing of 2019. Nothing has changed at the top of the standings as Mġarr United and Hibernians recorded wins over Kirkop United and Raiders (Luxol). The Stripes raced into a three-goal lead in the first half of their game against Swieqi United with goals from Kailey Willis, Tracy Teuma and Rebecca Bajada. In the second period, Stephania Farrugia hit a brace before Kelly Agius Pace rounded the scoring with their sixth goal. Birkirkara captain Farrugia has increased her league tally to seven goals. Second-placed Mġarr United overcame Kirkop United 3-0 to stay in second place. Haley Bugeja opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 27 minutes. Ten minutes later, Maria Mizzi doubled their lead and Amber Grech wrapped up the win for the Greens on the hour mark. Hibernians edged Raiders with a 2-1 scoreline to keep their slim title hopes alive. Jade Flask and Emma Xuereb scored the goals for the Paolites inside the opening 19 minutes. In the closing stages, Rebecca Naudi pulled one back for Raiders. Elsewhere, Mosta and Fgura United shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw. Martina Cortis put the Blues ahead but Marie Claire Alamango levelled terms for Fgura. STANDINGS (after nine games)Birkirkara 27 points; Mġarr United 21; Hibernians 19; Kirkop United 10; Swieqi United, Raiders 9; Mosta 5; Fgura United 2. NEXT FIXTURES Wednesday, January 16 – 8.15pmMosta vs Birkirkara – Mosta GroundSwieqi United vs Raiders (Luxol) – Mġarr Ground  Thursday, January 17 - 8.15pmHibernians vs Mġarr Ground – Mosta GroundKirkop United vs Fgura United, – Mġarr Ground