When the draws for the semi-finals of the FA Trophy were made yesterday, Champions Sliema Wanderers were pitted against their big rivals Birkirkara in what should be a pre-final of the competition.

Just a few days ago, the Stripes inflicted a 3-1 defeat over the Wanderers who were forced to postpone their title celebrations to Monday night.

In the other semi-final, Marsaxlokk will be facing Msida St Joseph, therefore enabling one of the two minnows to reach the final where a berth in next year's UEFA Cup will be at stake.

If Birkirkara beat Valletta on Saturday to make sure of the runner-up place in the League, then the winner of the Msida-Marsalxokk tie will be assured of a place in the UEFA Cup, even as the losing finalist, because Sliema are also already in the Champions League.

The Sliema-Birkirkara match will be played on Friday, May 13 at 7.30 pm, while the second is scheduled for Saturday 14 May at 5pm.

The final will be played on Friday 20 May at 8pm.

All three matches will be played at the National Stadium and will be decided after extra time or on a penalty shoot-out.