Marsaxlokk and Tarxien Rainbows hope to close in on leaders Valletta as they take on Qormi and Birkirkara respectively at the Hibernians Stadium on Sunday. Both teams are currently joint-third, with Hamrun Spartans, on 13 points, five behind the Citizens.

In the first match, the Southseasiders will be aiming at returning to winning ways after dropping two important points in their last outing against Vittoriosa when they were held in a 1-1 draw. Marsaxlokk won three and drew four, losing only to leaders Valletta.

Qormi are currently third from bottom on eight points and are eager to return to victory after going four matches without a win, collecting two points in draws with Sliema and Hibernians.

Stephen Azzopardi hopes to welcome back George Mallia who missed the last game against the Paolites but his presence and that of Jason Vandelannoite and Abubakar Bello-Osagie is in doubt as they were recovering from slight injuries. For Marsaxlokk, Julio Alcorse will be back after serving a suspension.

Meanwhile in the second game, champions Birkirkara take on in-form Tarxien.The Rainbows are currently joint-third on 13 points, followed by Birkirkara on 12.

Tarxien defeated Sliema Wanderers, Floriana and Hibernians in their last three outings and are eager to extend this winning streak with a win over the champions.

Birkirkara, on the other hand, target a win which could put them in second place should Marsaxlokk fail to beat Qormi in the first game.

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