Birkirkara, Hibernians cross swords in Women’s Super Cup

Birkirkara and Hibernians will launch the 2018/19 women’s football season as they will contest the 14th edition of the BOV Women’s Super Cup at the Centenary Stadium on Tuesday, kick-off at 19:00.

The Stripes, who completed a clean sweep last season after winning all domestic honours, including the Super Cup, will be going all out to begin the new campaign on a top note and add a fifth Super Cup title to their trophy collection.

Led by coach Melania Bajada, Birkirkara had a positive summer as they obtained their first ever point in the qualifying stages of the UEFA Women’s Champions League following a 2-2 draw against Welsh side Cardiff Met Women in Ukraine.

Moreover, they have strengthened their squad with the signings of Rebecca Bajada, formerly of Hibernians, young Tarxien Rainbows striker Kailey Willis and Ylenia Carabott, a prolific striker who won every domestic title with the Paolites before seeking pastures new this summer.

Birkirkara will be facing a Hibernians side determined to bounce back after failing to win a trophy last season.

In fact, their last silverware was the 2016 Super Cup, their sixth, when Hibs beat the Stripes 5-3. Since then, Birkirkara went on to win the championship and the domestic cup twice, besides last year’s Super Cup (3-2).

Leading the Hibs team on the field will be experienced Malta midfielder Dorianne Theuma. She has won this honour nine times, including six wearing the black and white shirt.

Hibernians reacted to Carabott’s move to Birkirkara by injecting young blood into their squad with the signings of Jodie Attard, Chloe Ann Ellul, Jessica Dimech and Leanne Cefai, all of whom were part of the Malta U-19 squad for the Romania friendlies last week.

Under the guidance of Neil Zarb Cousin, Hibs will be aiming to bring the best out of these young players while remaining competitive during the season.