Tricky test for Valletta

Valletta will be all out to claim the three points on Sunday as they take on Tarxien Rainbows in one of the two matches in programme at the Hibernians Stadium. Following Birkirkara’s 0-1 defeat to Sliema Wanderers, a win for the Citizens would give Ton Caanen’s side sole leadership.

Birkirkara and Valletta currently share the top spot on 33 points. Tarxien, on the other hand, are sixth on 21 points.

Valletta are coming from three consecutive wins as they defeated Msida and Qormi 1-0 and Hibernians 4-2. The Rainbows, on the other hand, defeated Msida 3-0 and Qormi 2-0 in their last two outings.

David Camilleri and Gianluca Calabretta will be back for Noel Coleiro’s side from suspension. Luke Dimech is ruled out for Valletta as he serves a one-match ban.

In the first round, Valletta and Tarxien shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw.

Meanwhile the first match is the clash between the two bottom teams – Dingli Swallows and Msida St. Joseph. The Swallows lie at the bottom of the table with just three points while the Saints are second from bottom on eight.

Dingli are coming from eleven successive defeats. Msida, on the other hand, lost the last five matches.

Both sides will be unable to field their best formation. Dingli’s Roderick Briffa, Shawn Tellus and Kevin Borg together with Msida’s Adam Spiteri and Kevin Mifsud are all ruled out through suspension.

In the first round, Msida defeated Dingli 2-1.