Three all-Premier League clashes in FA Trophy third round on Saturday

Twelve teams seek a place in the fourth round of the FA Trophy, sponsored by Boost Diesel, as six third round matches are in programme on Saturday at the Centenary Stadium, Hibernians Stadium and Victor Tedesco Stadium.

In the first match at the Centenary Stadium, Hibernians take on Gozo Football League First Division leaders Victoria Hotspurs. The Paolites are currently third in the BOV Premier League, three points behind joint-leaders Valletta and Balzan. On the other hand, the Hotspurs are still unbeaten in Gozo dropping just two points in seven matches in a draw. In the previous rounds, Gotthard Conti’s side defeated Nadur Youngsters 2-0 and Second Division side Birzebbuga St. Peter’s 4-0.

The second match is a direct clash between two Premier League sides – Valletta and Senglea Athletic. After a rather disappointing start, the Citizens are now one of the main challengers in the BOV Premier League as they share the top spot with Balzan. Senglea, on the other hand, are coming from a disappointing run which saw them lose six out of the last eight matches.

In the first match at the Hibernians Stadium, St. Andrews take on Sliema Wanderers. The Blues are currently joint-fifth on 23 points while the Saints are joint-second from bottom on seven points. Sliema won five out of the last six matches, including a 2-0 win over the Saints. St. Andrews, on the other hand, lost five out of the last six matches.

In the second match, Naxxar Lions take on holders Floriana in another clash between two Premier League sides. Naxxar share the tenth place with Senglea on 9 points while Floriana are currently fifth on 23 points. The Greens suffered their first defeat this season last week after losing narrowly to Valletta.

In the first match at the Victor Tedesco Stadium, Second Division side Santa Lucia take on Birkirkara. The Stripes hope for more success in the FA Trophy this season as they are currently disappointing in the BOV Premier League where they currently lie in eighth place on 16 points. Santa Lucia, on the other hand, are joint-third in Division 2 with 19 points from 12 matches. In the previous round, Santa Lucia defeated Marsa 4-1.

In the other game, Balzan take on Second Division Gudja United. Balzan lead the way in the BOV Premier League with 27 points and start as firm favourites against a team which is joint-third in the BOV Second Division. Gudja have however eliminated a team from Division 1, Rabat Ajax, beating them 3-0 after extra-time in the second round.