Joint-leaders Hibernians and Valletta cross swords in a top-of-the-table clash in the BOV Premier League at the National Stadium on Sunday just before a two-week Christmas break.

Hibernians and Valletta were the most two consistent sides this season. The Paolites won ten matches, were held in four draws by Balzan, Pembroke, Birkirkara and Sliema, losing the only game to Mosta. Valletta, on the other hand, won eleven matches, drew once with Mosta but suffered three defeats to Balzan, Hibs and Pembroke.

They now lie just two points ahead of Birkirkara and Floriana who both registered wins on Saturday and therefore a win in this major clash will be a big morale-boost ahead of the forthcoming fixtures.

Hibs could not field their best formation as goalkeeper Jurgen Borg and Andrei Agius are ruled out through suspension while Rodolfo Soares is still recovering from an injury. Valletta, on the other hand, are expected to be in full strength.

Meanwhile in the first match, Qormi take on Sliema Wanderers.

Nine points separate Sliema, who are currently joint-fourth from bottom with Pembroke, with Qormi who are third from bottom. The Blues bounced back from three consecutive defeats with a win over Pembroke and a draw with Mosta. Qormi, on the other hand, ended their winless streak with a comfortable win over wooden-spoonists St. Andrews.

In the first round, the two teams shared the spoils in a goalless draw.