And it starts with a bang. A match between the two great rivals in the local game, Sliema-Neptunes, at 3.45pm, heralds the start of the competition which is expected to be a good pre-season tournament for the five participating clubs.

Apart from Sliema and Neptunes, Sirens, San Giljan and Marsaxlokk are also taking part, even though the first three will be expected to be the challengers for the title.

No foreigners are taking part in this competition – these, however, will be returning to the local scene in the summer league.

After the Sliema-Neptunes match today, there will also be the Marsaxlokk-Sirens clash, due to start at 5pm. San Giljan will not be in action this weekend.