Sliema McDonalds, in second place, two points adrift of leaders Neptunes Vodafone, cannot falter today against Sirens if they are to maintain their title challenge till the very end.

With next week's final match between Sliema and Neptunes looming ahead, it is imperative for Sliema to win today to keep their hopes alive.

A defeat for the Blues today will mean that Neptunes would need only one point from their clash against San Giljan tomorrow to win the Malta championship, while a draw for Sliema today means that a victory for Neptunes tomorrow will give them the title.

If Sliema win today and then go on to beat Neptunes next week (assuming that Neptunes beat San Giljan tomorrow), then a decider between the two big guns will become necessary to determine this year's title.

In any case, Sliema will certainly start as hot favourites to beat Sirens Hard Rock Cafe, who were humiliated to the tune of 14-3 by the leaders in last Saturday's programme.

The St Paul's Bay side were left breathless last Saturday as they lost heavily to Neptunes and are out of contention for the title.

Tomorrow, the more consistent Neptunes should also start as hot favourites to beat Balluta Bay rivals and neighbours San Giljan Zara.

Programme

Today

Tal-Qroqq: Division II 6pm Exiles Pendergardes-Marsascala 7-Up; Division I 7.15pm Sirens Hard Rock Café-Sliema McDonalds.

Tomorrow

Tal-Qroqq: Under 19 4.30pm Sliema McDonalds-Sirens; Division II 5.45pm Marsaxlokk Freeport-Ta' Xbiex MP; Division I 7pm San Giljan Zara-Neptunes Vodafone.