A tough nut to crack for Balzan

Balzan will be all out to regain the top spot in the BOV Premier League table but they have a tough nut to crack as they take on Floriana in one of the two matches in programme on Sunday at the National Stadium.

Following Hibernians’ 4-0 win over Mosta on Saturday, Balzan fell two points behind the Paolites and therefore a win is a must in order to move back on top. They won three out of the last four matches, losing the other game to Sliema.

Floriana, on the other hand, are currently fourth on 43 points, eight behind Balzan, and are coming from four consecutive positive results following three wins over Mosta, Birkirkara and Pembroke and a draw with St. Andrews.

Ryan Fenech returns for Balzan from suspension but Clive Brincat is ruled out as he serves a one-match ban. Also serving a one-match ban is Steve Pisani.

Balzan defeated Floriana 1-0 in the first round but the second round clash ended in a 3-1 win for Floriana.

Meanwhile in the second match, Birkirkara start as favourites to take the three points as they take on Hamrun Spartans.

The Stripes returned to winning ways last week as they registered a narrow win over Tarxien. On the other hand, Hamrun lost four out of the last five matches, suffering a 1-3 defeat to Gzira United in their last outing. The Spartans are currently joint-eighth, eleven points ahead of Mosta and thirteen ahead of Pembroke.

Predrag Jovic is suspended for Birkirkara but they welcome back Ryan Scicluna.

Birkirkara defeated Hamrun 2-1 in the first round but the second round clash ended in a fine 2-0 win for the Spartans.