This weekend sees the start of the second round of the BOV Pemier League.

The first two teams in action are Valletta and Birkirkara, this evening at 7pm.

Both teams had a disappointing first round so far, well below their initial expectations, although both have registered wins in their previous matches.

Birkirkara, currently third in the standings, gained some ground after Sliema’s defeat last week with a 1-0 win over Floriana.

Valletta, on their part, also won against newly promoted Mosta with the same scoreline.

A clash between Valletta and Birkirkara evokes nostalgic memories of some years back when both teams were the main protagonists of the local game. Although far from the strength of their glory days, both teams take into today’s match highly motivated. They are willing to improve from the previous round’s dismal showing.

Birkirkara want to keep up the challenge as title contenders and cannot afford to drop more points, while Valletta want to assure themselves of at least playing in the Championship Pool in the second phase. Valletta will have midfielder Keith Fenech suspended today.

In the first round, Birkirkara had beaten the Citizens 4-2, with goals from Camenzuli, Briffa, Calascione and Zahra as the Stripes were always in command.

Valletta’s scorers on the day were Nisevic and Galea.

Valletta have a score to settle.