After winning two of the last three matches, Melita seek more precious points as they take on Balzan in one of the two BOV Premier League matches in programme at the Victor Tedesco Stadium on Friday.

The Amateurs defeated Valletta and Hamrun Spartans apart from a draw with Sliema Wanderers and are now on level points with the Spartans in tenth place on 13 points, seven ahead of Rabat Ajax.

Photo: Copyright © Joe Borg / MFA

Balzan returned to winning ways as they defeated Qormi 2-1 in their last outing to move seventh and a win would put them just three points behind Tarxien Rainbows.

Matthew Mendy returns for Balzan after serving a one-match ban. Nigel Rizzo and Michael Valenzia are still ruled out through suspension.

In the first round, Balzan defeated Melita 2-1.

Meanwhile in the second match, Mosta and Tarxien Rainbows cross swords in a direct clash between two teams who are vying for a place in the Championship Pool.

Mosta are currently fourth on 31 points and a win on Friday would put them temporarily on top the BOV Premier League table. They claimed maximum points from the last three matches, beating Hamrun, Balzan and Floriana.

Tarxien, on the other hand, lie in the sixth place on 28 points and are coming from a heavy 0-5 defeat to Birkirkara. A win is a must as they aim at closing in on the Championship Pool spot.

Ryan Sammut will be back for Tarxien after serving a one-match ban while Branislav Timotic is expected to make his debut after joining the club from Sliema. For Mosta, Tyrone Farrugia should also make his first appearance.

Tarxien defeated Mosta 2-0 in the first round.