Stripes' test for leaders Hibernians

bkara-hibs130511pzcBOV Premier League leaders Hibernians have a difficult task in trying to extend their hundred percent record as they face champions Birkirkara in this weekend’s big match at the National Stadium on Sunday, kick-off at 19:00. Apart from the decider which handed Birkirkara the title last season, they have already defeated Hibernians 3-2 last month in the BOV Super Cup and therefore Hibs are eager to defeat their rivals.

The Paolites defeated Tarxien, Valletta, Vittoriosa and Rabat in the first four matches and share the top spot with Valletta, who however played five matches.

The Stripes, on the other hand, won three of the four matches played – defeating Rabat, Balzan and Mosta and being held in a draw by Sliema.

Ryan Scicluna is injured for Birkirkara. Hibernians welcome back Jonathan Pearson but Bjorn Kristensen is still recovering from an injury.

Meanwhile in the first match, kick-off at 17:00, Balzan take on Mosta.

The Blues collected six points in two wins over Rabat and Vittoriosa, losing to Valletta and Birkirkara. Balzan, on the other hand, collected four points in a draw with Vittoriosa and a win over Rabat, losing to Birkirkara and Sliema in their last two matches.

Balzan’s Fabio Vignaroli and Mosta’s Kane Farrugia are ruled out through suspension.

Photo: Copyright © Paul Zammit Cutajar