Birkirkara hope to extend the lead on top the BOV Premier League table as they take on Mosta with second-placed Hibernians facing Sliema Wanderers in the other match at the National Stadium on Saturday.

Despite having four players ruled out through suspension after being sent off or picking a fourth yellow card in last week’s 1-1 draw with Hibernians, Birkirkara are favourites to claim the three points as they take on a Mosta side which lost all the games in the Championship Pool.

Coach Paul Zammit could not count on Alejandro Mendoza Corujo, Rodrigo Pereira, Rowen Muscat and Paul Fenech

The Stripes registered two 7-1 wins over Mosta with the first round clash ending in a narrow 1-0 win.

Meanwhile in the second match, Sliema Wanderers face Hibernians.

The Paolites cannot afford any result other than a win in their bid to claim the title. THey lie two points behind Birkirkara and three ahead of Valletta. However it will be no easy task for Hibs, considering that Sliema defeated Hibernians 4-0 in the first round and 2-0 in the third round with the second round clash ending in a 2-1 win for the Paolites.

The Wanderers are still chasing a place in the UEFA Europa League this summer and are currently fourth on 30 points, three behind Valletta. They lost 0-1 to Birkirkara and 0-2 to Valletta in their last two outings.

Rodolfo Soares is ruled out for Hibernians after being sent off in their last game. Mark Scerri returns for Sliema after serving a one-match ban but Ian Zammit is still ruled out.

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