The BOV Premier League first round comes to an end with this week-end’s five matches, the first of which will be played this evening at Ta’ Qali National stadium between Floriana and Birkirkara (7pm).

Both teams try to improve on a disappointing first round so far, especially Floriana, who are still looking for that elusive first league win this season and remain hooked at the bottom of the standings.

Their results so far, belie the team’s true potential as their performances at times deserved a better fare. A case in point was last Sunday’s narrow defeat by leaders Sliema Wanderers.

Floriana’s ambition will be hampered by the absence of their striker Adrian Mifsud, who received a one-match ban after being sent off against Sliema.

Birkirkara’s third place in the standings might rightly suggest they are still on course for the title, considering that after the first two rounds, the points are halved.

However, trailing by eight points behind Sliema, is by no means an insignificant deficit. The Birkirkara clan would have hoped to obtain some better results by now, considering the squad’s high potential. Their performances remain worrying at times.

Birkirkara have won five of their first eight matches but they bitterly disappointed in their last outing against Mosta, winning only by a tight margin after taking a three-goal cushion.

The return of Antoine Zahra after suspension, plus the added impetus of Etienne Barbara, back in form after injury, may boost the Stripes’ morale against Floriana.

With both teams unable to drop more precious points, an entertaining fare might be in store today.