A place in the final is at stake on Saturday as Tarxien Rainbows take on champions and holders Valletta in the first semi-final of the U*BET FA Trophy at the National Stadium, kick-off at 17:00.

The Citizens start as firm favourites to make it to the final after finishing their league commitments with an unbeaten record and remained unbeaten this season, since July, including the two UEFA Europa League qualifiers. To reach the semi-finals, Valletta beat Hibernians 1-0 with a goal in extra-time by Denni Rocha Dos Santos. They defeated Tarxien three time this season – 5-2, 2-0 and 1-0.

The Rainbows aim at giving their opponents a hard time after holding them in a 2-2 draw in their last league outing. For Tarxien, reaching the final would definitely be the best achievement ever in the history of the club after placing fifth in the BOV Premier League for the past two seasons. They reached the semi-finals after defeating Balzan Youths 3-1, Hamrun Spartans 3-2 after extra-time and Vittoriosa Stars 4-2.

Everton Antonio Pereira is ruled out for the Rainbows as he serves a one-match ban.

Photo: Copyright © www.stephengatt.com