With Marsaxlokk enjoying a nine-point lead at the top of the standings and with no real challengers in sight, the battle for the two UEFA Cup berths has become the most interesting issue in the Championship Pool of the Bank of Valletta Premier League.

The campaign continues this weekend with another four matches, one of which will be in connection with the Relegation Pool.

Today, in the programme opener, Floriana face Pieta Hotspurs, while in the match that follows Sliema meet Hibernians. Tomorrow, Birkirkara meet Msida before Marsaxlokk take on Valletta.

As the standings show, Marsaxlokk are runaway leaders on 32 points. Second are Sliema nine points behind. Third are Valletta on 21 and they are followed by Birkirkara on 18, Msida and Hibernians, both on 17 points.

The Sliema-Hibs clash is, perhaps, a last opportunity for the Paolites to maintain their challenge for the runner-up placing. A victory will be welcomed not only by themselves, but even by the other challengers as it will lessen the gap between all of them and Sliema.

But a Sliema victory will practically mean finish to the Paolites’ hopes.

Tomorrow, we still have to see whether Birkirkara’s revival under new coach John Buttigieg is set to continue as they meet the disappointing Msida side.

The Saints have lost their rhythm, or so it seems, since the last part of the first phase and at the start of the second. Against Birkirkara they hope to get back to winning form, especially in the knowledge that they have already beaten the outgoing champions twice this season.

Marsaxlokk are also set for more success when facing Valletta tomorrow. The citizens have remained 11 points adrift after losing to Sliema and dropping two points against Hibernians. Their only hope now is to finish high up as possible to secure a UEFA Cup berth.

On the other hand, Marsaxlokk continue to leave the best impression and I will not be surprised were they to collect a further three points as Brian Talbot insists on his side making sure of the title as early as possible.

The match in the Relegation Pool offers an opportunity for Pieta to continue distancing themselves from St George’s. A victory for the Hotspurs will enable them to open a five-point gap over their rivals. On the other hand, a victory for Floriana will practically assure Floriana of their status next season while leaving the battle open between Pieta and St George’s with only two points separating the two clubs.