Two of the last four decisive matches are being played this evening at Ta?Qali, with the remaining two to be played next Monday.
In today’s programme, Floriana face Birkirkara in the first match, while in the second, leaders Valletta take on second placed Marsaxlokk.
It is definitely another interesting programme with all the clubs aiming for the points for obvious reasons.
In the first match, Birkirkara are expected to make a bold effort to make sure of their Top Six place - a draw is enough for them - while Floriana will be seeking the three points to improve their position at the start of the Championship Pool.
In the second match, it is evident that second placed Marsaxlokk will be keen to win the three points to join leaders Valletta at the top of the standings.
But first they have to halt Valletta’s impressive 11-match unbeaten run. In fact, the citizens?last defeat was at the hands of Sliema Wanderers in the first round match on 4 October.
Since then, Valletta have improved considerably, although on certain occasions, they were also lucky to win maximum points.
For example, they were considered lucky by some to have taken the three points in their last match against Birkirkara. Last Monday, the league leaders were criticised by the Stripes as unsporting, especially Argentine striker Sebastian Monesterolo, when he failed to return the ball when the Stripes threw it away as they had player Sylla injured. That action led to Valletta’s first goal. The Stripes were also incensed on the occasion of City’s second goal from a penalty, which was probably inexistent.
However, there is no doubt that the citizens are on the right track and a victory over Marsaxlokk would ensure they would start the Championship Pool three points clear of today’s opponents and Sliema.
It is a match which will be worth watching with city president Victor Sciriha eyeing a sweet three points over the team he led to a first ever championship win last season.
On their part, Marsaxlokk have also been showing progress, now having gone through five unbeaten matches since that infamous 7-3 defeat to Hamrun Spartans.
Brian Talbot’s side is one of the most talented in the Premier League and I still consider them among the favourites to retain the title, especially if they can lower Valletta's colours.
In the opening match this evening, Floriana already have set their minds at rest with regards to the Top Six. The Greens will have the advantage of playing with tranquillity now, even if they need the points to improve their position in the hope of making it to a European berth next season.
But Birkirkara still need that elusive point to assure themselves. In fact, the Stripes are aware that in case of another defeat this evening, they can be forced into a decider with Hamrun, if the Spartans lose their clash against Hibernians next Monday. Both have 26 points at present.
The Stripes did not deserve to lose against Valletta last Monday and if they reproduce the same form and prove to be more lethal in attack, they should be able to reach their aim this evening without much trouble.
If the Stripes win a point today, then Monday’s clash between Hibernians and Hamrun Spartans will become decisive with the Spartans needing just a draw to condemn Hibernians, two points behind them, to the Relegation Pool.