Difficult test for champions Hibernians

Champions Hibernians are in for a difficult test as they take on Floriana in one of the two BOV Premier League matches in programme on Wednesday at the National Stadium.

The Paolites are currently third on 25 points, three behind Valletta and one behind Balzan who defeated Sliema Wanderers and Naxxar Lions respectively on Tuesday. They won three out of the last five matches, the other two ending in draws. They defeated Balzan 3-2 in their last outing.

However this will be no easy task for Hibs as Floriana lost just one of the last ten matches, winning three out of the last four games. They are currently joint-fourth, one point behind the Paolites. Floriana beat Mosta 1-0 in their last league game.

Hibs defeated Floriana 2-1 in the first round.

Meanwhile in the first match, Birkirkara take on Tarxien Rainbows.

The Stripes are currently joint-fourth with Floriana while the Rainbows lie a point behind them in sixth place. Birkirkara are unbeaten in nine matches but won only one of the last four matches, being held in draws by Hibs, Floriana and Naxxar. Tarxien, on the other hand, won four out of the last five matches, defeating Sliema 3-2 in their last outing.

Ebiabowei Baker is ruled out for Tarxien as he serves a two-match ban. Joseph Zerafa and Paul Fenech should be back for the Stripes.

In the first round, Tarxien and Birkirkara shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw.