Floriana need just one point from their clash against Hamrun Spartans this evening to make sure of their Top Six berth.

Two more matches are being played today following the postponement from yesterday in view of the General Elections campaign.

Four clubs are still vying to avoid the dreaded last spot in the Relegation Pool after Msida were confirmed as the third team to play alongside Pieta and Mqabba.

Floriana, Birkirkara, Hibernians and Hamrun are all still highly involved in this issue.

It is obvious that wins for Floriana and Birkirkara (against Valletta) this evening will make the final clash between Hibernians and Hamrun Spartans decisive. Only one point separates the two sides with Hamrun having today's match in hand.

It is a situation where none of the four sides playing today can afford to lose points - not even leaders Valletta. Although they are assured of their place in the Top Six, they would relish a victory to keep their distance from the chasing pack.

On the other hand, a victory for Birkirkara not only will assure them of a place among the Top Six, but will also enable them to move to within just three points of the leadership in the knowledge that the points will be deducted by half at the start of the second phase, that is, the Championship Pool.

Floriana and Hamrun will be seeking to return to victory after suffering defeats in their last matches. Hamrun lost heavily to Valletta and Birkirkara, while Floriana were surprised by Msida last week as the latter won 3-2.

A keen encounter is anticipated as both sides will be eager to collect the three points. In fact, Floriana are well aware that a defeat will leave them in trouble with Birkirkara being their last opponents in the first phase.

The match between the two great rivals – Birkirkara and Valletta – comes at a time when the two sides are seeking precious points for obvious reasons.

Valletta have seen their lead at the top diminish slowly but surely. Now even Sliema have crept up to join them on the 32-point mark, but while the Blues have concluded their first phase commitments, Valletta still have to play against Birkirkara today and against Marsaxlokk, who are also on 32 points.

Today's programme

Ta' Qali: 6pm Floriana-Hamrun S.; 8pm Valletta-Birkirkara