Valletta take on Birkirkara in bid to re-join Hibernians on top

Winning is a must for Valletta as they take on Birkirkara at the National Stadium on Sunday, kick-off at 16:00, in order to re-join Hibernians on top the BOV Premier League table.

The Paolites’ narrow win over Floriana put them once again three points ahead of the Citizens and therefore Danilo Doncic’s side cannot afford any result other than a win to share once again the top spot with Hibernians.

Valletta won eleven out of the last thirteen matches, dropping the only points in a draw with Gżira and a defeat to Ħamrun. In the FA Trophy, they defeated Lija Athletic 7-1.

Birkirkara, on the other hand, are currently fifth on 28 points, six behind the Citizens. They won four out of the last five matches, defeating Ħamrun Spartans 2-1 in the FA Trophy fourth round.

The Stripes could have Malta international goalkeeper Andrew Hogg making his debut after his move from Hibernians.

In the first round, Valletta defeated Birkirkara 3-0.

Meanwhile in the first match, kick-off at 14:00, Gżira United take on Sliema Wanderers.

The Maroons disappointed in recent outings as they dropped ten points in five draws out of the last seven matches. They are currently third on 33 points, one behind Valletta and four behind Hibernians. In the FA Trophy, they defeated Melita 4-2.

Sliema, on the other hand, are currently seventh on 26 points. They lost four out of the last eight matches. In the FA Trophy, they were eliminated by Mosta. A defeat which cost coach John Buttigieg his job. His assistant Ivan Woods will lead the team for the time being. Last week, they strengthened their squad with the signing of Ignacio Varela after Jefferson de Assis joined Nadur Youngsters in Gozo.

In the first round, the Maroons defeated the Wanderers 2-0.