Hibernians and Sliema Wanderers cross swords in a direct clash between two teams aiming to challenge leaders Hamrun Spartans in one of the three matches in programme on Saturday at the Hibernians Stadium and the National Stadium respectively.

The Paolites lie in second place five points behind leaders Hamrun, followed by Sliema Wanderers one point behind in third place.

Hibs bounced back from the defeat to Brkirakra with wins over Balzan and Senglea while Sliema lost two out of the last four matches to Hamrun and Mosta, collecting maximum points from the clashes with Floriana and Tarxien.

In another match at the Hibernians Stadium, Balzan will be aiming for a second consecutive win as they take on Tarxien Rainbows.

Balzan ended their winless streak with a narrow win over Sirens last week and now share the fourth place from bottom with Zejtun. Tarxien, on the other hand, have strengthened their squad and earned a point in a draw with Floriana on Wednesday but now need a win after losing five out of the last six matches.

At the National Stadium, Gzira United target a win over Floriana in their bid to close in on the top teams.

Lying in fifth place on 25 points, a win could possibly put them in joint-third place. They won two out of the last three matches, defeating Balzan and Senglea, earning a point in a draw with Birkirkara. Floriana, on the other hand, The Greens lost three out of the last five matches, earning two points in draws with Zejtun and Tarxien. They are currently eleventh on 18 points.

All matches are being played behind closed doors. but fans are able to watch games thanks to the live-streaming service being offered by the Malta Football Association at https://live.mfa.com.mt/ apart from the usual two weekly matches which are broadcast on TVM 2 and/or TSN.