Almost decisive clash in the Relegation Pool

hamrun-rabat121005JBHamrun Spartans and Rabat Ajax cross swords in what could be a decisive clash for relegation in one of the two Relegation Pool matches in programme on Friday at the Hibernians Stadium.

Two points separate the two teams as the Spartans are currently third from bottom on 15 points, two ahead of the Magpies. Melita lie at the bottom of the table with ten points.

Both teams collected the same amount of points from the six Relegation Pool matches played so far – seven. Rabat defeated Qormi and Balzan, being held in a draw by Melita. On the other hand, Hamrun defeated Rabat and Balzan, earning their other point in a draw with Melita.

A win for Hamrun would almost secure their Premier League status as they would move five points ahead of Rabat with just three games to go. On the other hand, while a draw would keep the Spartans two points ahead of Rabat, a win for the Magpies would put them two points ahead of Hamrun.

The Spartans welcome back Bledjon Guga and David Camilleri but Terence Scerri is ruled out through suspension. Rabat Ajax goalkeeper Sean Mintoff is suspended.

After a 1-1 draw in the first round, Hamrun defeated Rabat twice – 3-0 and 2-1.

Meanwhile in another match, Balzan take on Floriana.

The Greens secured their Premier League status thanks to a 2-0 win over Melita in their last outing. On the other hand, Balzan are yet to make sure of avoiding relegation. They have gone five matches without a win, losing to Rabat and Hamrun in their last two outings.

Renato Conceicao and Aaron Agius are ruled out for Balzan as they serve a one-match ban.

Floriana defeated Balzan 3-1 twice in the first two rounds. The third round clash ended in a 1-1 draw.

Photo: Copyright © Joe Borg / MFA