After losing out to Birkirkara in the BOV Super Cup and a shock 0-1 defeat to Mosta in their first league outing, champions Valletta seek their first win on Saturday as they take on Tarxien Rainbows in one of the four matches in programme.

Balzan and Birkirkara target a second win as they face Naxxar Lions and Zebbug Rangers respectively while Sliema Wanderers aim for a win over Floriana.

Zebbug Rangers vs Birkirkara, kick-off 18:30 at National Stadium
After a narrow win over Pietà Hotspurs, Birkirkara start as favourites to claim another three points from this clash although Zebbug gave a good account of themselves despite a 4-2 defeat to Balzan last week.

The presence of Joseph Zerafa, Edmond Agius and Gareth Sciberras is still in doubt after all missed the last game. On the other hand, a Brazilian goalkeeper could make his first appearance for Jesmond Zammit’s side but Craig Beattie is unlikely to make it for this game.

Sliema Wanderers vs Floriana, kick-off 20:30 at National Stadium
After being held in a draw by Tarxien Rainbows thanks to a stoppage-time equaliser, Sliema Wanderers target the three points from this Old Firm derby. The Blues are expected to be in full strength with no players injured or suspended.

Floriana lost 0-3 to Hibernians last week and have now strengthened the squad with the signing of Italian goalkeeper Valerio Senatore and Brazilian central defender Douglas Cobo. Steve Pisani will be back for the Greens after serving a one-match ban.

Naxxar Lions vs Balzan, kick-off 18:30 at Victor Tedesco Stadium
After beating Zebbug in their first outing, Balzan aim for another positive result as they take on a Naxxar Lions side which lost narrowly to Qormi last week. Naxxar will therefore aim for their first three points.

Nigerian defender Emmanuel Ibok Edet and Senegalese midfielder Pape Gueye are set to make their debut for Naxxar Lions Victor Bellia returns for Naxxar after serving a one-match ban but Brazilian midfielder Sidney da Silva is ruled out injured.

Balzan, on the other hand, are expected to have Samir Arab making his debut after missing the alst game through suspension.

Valletta vs Tarxien Rainbows, kick-off 20:45 at Victor Tedesco Stadium
Champions Valletta hope to bounce back from a disappointing start to their Premier League campaign with a win over Tarxien Rainbows who earned a point in a draw with Sliema last week.

For Valletta, Roderick Briffa is still ruled out injured but Ryan Camilleri should be back despite sustaining an injury in the same game. Tarxien, on the other hand, are expected to have Firas Aboulezz making his debut after missing the last game.

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