Spartans host Birkirkara on Friday

Hamrun Spartans will be seeking more precious points on Friday as they host champions Birkirkara at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, kick-off at 19:30.

The Spartans returned to winning ways in their last outing as they defeated Hibernians in a seven-goal thriller. A win which brought to an end a negative spell consisting of two defeats to Sliema Wanderers and Floriana. They are currently second on nine points, two behind leaders Valletta.

Birkirkara, on the other hand, are joint-fifth on seven points. Following a good start to their BOV Premier League with a fine 4-1 win over Sliema, the Stripes collected just four points in four matches – defeating Hibernians, a draw with Valletta and losing to Floriana and Marsaxlokk. The champions definitely need a much better performance in order to return to victory.

Both sides will be unable to field their best formation due to the absence of Shaun Bajada, Rowen Muscat and Alan Tabone for Birkirkara, Dene Shields for Hamrun. However Martin Hrubsa and Steve Bonnici will be back after serving a one-match ban.