Senglea Athletic face St. Andrews in BOV Premier League play-off

St. Andrews and Senglea Athletic cross swords at the Hibernians Stadium on Friday, kick-of at 19:30, in a direct clash for a place in the BOV Premier League next season.

After a dismal start to their Premier League campaign during which they suffered nineteen consecutive defeats, a complete overhaul in their foreign line-up yielded four wins and three draws – including back-to-back victories in their last two games against Naxxar Lions and Qormi to condemn the latter two to Division 1 and secure tenth place.

Although they were promoted from Division 2 at the end of the previous season, Senglea Athletic were among the front runners in the BOV First Division, staying behind Gzira United and Hamrun Spartans who were eventually promoted as champions and runners-up. In their last ten league matches, Senglea remained unbeaten, winning seven matches.

Led by former Naxxar Lions midfielder Pablo Doffo as player-coach, Senglea will seek a second consecutive promotion. On the other hand, St. Andrews will be all out to retain their Premier League status.

Both sides are expected to be in full strength but St. Andrews could only field four of their foreigners according to MFA regulations covering this play-off.

Extra-time will be played if necessary and if the result is still draw at the end of the 120 minutes, the penalty shoot-out will determine which team will be playing in the BOV Premier League 2016/17.