Hibs target precious points in battle against relegation

Hibernians will be aiming for the three points on Friday as they host Sliema Wanderers at the Hibernians Stadium. The game was originally scheduled for last Monday but was postponed.

The Paolites started their Relegation Pool commitments with a 2-1 win over Vittoriosa last week and another win on Monday would put them eight points clear of the Stars.

The Wanderers, on the other hand, seek a fourth successive win after beating Floriana, Hibs and Qormi in their last three matches, scoring nine and suffering none.

John Mintoff and Alex Muscat are still recovering from injuries for the Wanderers. For the Paolites, Brian Fairbairn is ruled out through suspension.

Following a goalless draw in the first round, Sliema won 4-0 in the second.

Meanwhile in a match from the Championship Pool, Tarxien Rainbows take on Marsaxlokk.

Just one point separates the two teams with the Southseasiders lying in fourth place on 16 points, one ahead of the Rainbows.

Marsaxlokk were just minutes away from inflicting the first defeat on leaders Valletta on Sunday but ended holding them in a 1-1 draw. A draw which extends Patrick Curmi’s side positive run to eight matches without defeat.

Tarxien, on the other hand, disappointed in recent outings, losing three out of the last four matches, earning the only point in a draw with Birkirkara. In their last outing, they suffered a heavy 1-5 defeat to Floriana.

The Rainbows welcome back Daniel Mariano Bueno after serving a three-match ban. Captain Manuel Caruana and Justin Grioli will also be back after missing the last game. For Marsaxlokk, Alfred Effiong is ruled out injured.

The first round clash ended in a goalless draw with Tarxien beating Marsaxlokk 4-2 in the second round.