Keener competition is expected in the first division as from this weekend after Sliema McDonald's surprisingly lost their clash against San Giljan Zara.

That defeat provided a lifeline for the hopes of both Sirens Hard Rock Café and San Giljan who could still have a say on the procedings, despite lying four points adrift of the leaders, Sliema and Neptunes Vodafone.

At present, Sliema and Neptunes are on top with 16 points each. Sirens and San Giljan have 12 points each. With a victory each this weekend, both Sirens and the Saints could creep closer to the leaders and will move to just two points off the leadership.

The programme starts today with the Sliema-Sirens clash at 7.30pm. Sliema certainly cannot afford another slip as that of last weekend when they were gunned down by San Giljan, while Sirens will be eager to get back on the winning path after the defeat against Neptunes the past weekend.

Tomorrow, at 7pm, Neptunes will be facing Balluta Bay rivals San Giljan and, after the latter's great win against Sliema last weekend, this match not only is important for the big rivalry that exists between the two neighbours but also because the Saints can even challenge for the honours if they win again.

Weekend programme

Today

Tal-Qroqq: Under 19 5pm Neptunes-Marsascala; Division II 6.15pm Ta' Xbiex M.P.-Otters ASC; Division I 7.30pm Sliema McDonald's-Sirens Hard Rock Café.

Tomorrow

Tal-Qroqq: Under 19 4.30pm Sirens-Exiles; Division II 5.45pm Marsascala 7-Up-Marsaxlokk Freeport; Division I 7pm Neptunes Vodafone-San Giljan Zara.