Hamrun Spartans scored a goal in each half to beat Hibernians 2-0 in a match from the YoHealth Malta Premier Opening Round league phase at the Centenary Stadium on Saturday.
The Spartans, therefore, leapfrogged the Paolites as they now lead the way with 15 points, one ahead of Hibernians and two ahead of Floriana, who, however, play against Mosta later on Saturday. For Hibernians, this was the first defeat after obtaining four wins and two draws from the first six matches.
Hamrun managed to take the lead on 6 minutes when Semir Smajlagic received a through ball on the right and beat goalkeeper Hugo Sacco.
The Spartans doubled the score on the hour when Joseph Mbong, served by Merlin Hadzi, slotted the ball past the Hibernians goalkeeper.
Six minutes from time, Hamrun went close to increasing the lead but substitute Mouad El Fanis hit the upright.