Hibernians will be aiming for the three points on Friday in order to move on top the BOV Premier League table as they take on Hamrun Spartans in one of the two matches in programme at the Victor Tedesco Stadium.

The Paolites bounced back from the defeat to leaders Valletta with a 2-1 win over Sliema Wanderers to move second on 35 points, one behind Valletta and two ahead of Birkirkara.

However, Hamrun will hope to continue where they had left on Sunday when they ended their negative run of eight consecutive defeats with a 3-1 win over Rabat Ajax. A positive result from this game would enable the Spartans to keep the distance from Melita.

Massimo Grima and Glen Azzopardi return for Hamrun after serving a one-match ban. Hibernians welcome back Rodolfo Soares but Marcelo Dias is suspended.

In the first round, Hibernians beat Hamrun 2-1.

Meanwhile in the first match, Tarxien Rainbows face Qormi.

The Rainbows seek the three points in their bid to close in on a Championship Pool spot. After losing to Birkirkara, Tarxien returned to winning ways, defeating Mosta 3-1 last week.

Qormi, on the other hand, are almost resigned to playing in the Relegation Pool after collecting just one point from the last two matches following a defeat to Balzan and a goalless draw with Floriana. They are currently ninth on 21 points, nine behind sixth-placed Sliema.

Edison Bilbao Zarate returns for Qormi after serving a suspension. Tarxien’s Justin Grioli is suspended.

In the first round, Qormi defeated Tarxien 2-1.

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