Sliema Wanderers must avoid defeat against ‘Old Firm’ rivals Floriana at all costs this evening, if they are to keep their UEFA Cup berth hopes alive.
As things stand at present, the Wanderers are three points behind second placed Birkirkara in the standings but have today’s final match in hand. If they win they will join the Stripes in second place. If they draw, then they will join Marsaxlokk in third place, although the southern seasiders will have Saturday’s match against Valletta in hand.
If Marsaxlokk beat Valletta, they would finish second, so today’s match is very important for Sliema who have registered four victories on the trot in the second round of the Championship Pool.
Considering all options, and especially if Marsaxlokk lose to Valletta, then the latter and Sliema (if they draw against Floriana) would finish in third place which, could also mean a UEFA Cup berth. This is because if Birkirkara win the Trophy, then it will be the next best placed in the League that advances into the UEFA Cup. And if Birkirkara finish second as well in the League, then it will be the third placed club to advance.
Stephen Azzopardi’s side seems to have started clicking, although it might still be too late for them. The Blues are aware that it is important for them to win as, at least, they would be assured of a decider for third place if Marsaxlokk take that honour.
In the first round (Championship Pool) match, Floriana had emerged winners by two goals to nil, but since then, the Wanderers have made giants strides forward with victories over Birkirkara, Marsaxlokk, Hamrun and Valletta, which have lifted them up the table in a most dramatic manner.
The Greens have nothing at stake except preparation for next Monday’s Trophy semi-final against Hamrun Spartans, but as eternal rivals, they would be expected to give the Blues a good run for their money.
Earlier, Pieta Hotspurs and Msida St Joseph bring the Relegation Pool to an end with the final encounter which has no interest at all. It will be Pieta’s bow to the Premier League after 13 years.
The relegation issue has been decided a few weeks ago with Pieta and Mqabba suffering The Drop to First Division football next season.
Programme
Ta’ Qali: 6pm Pieta H.-Msida SJ; 8pm Floriana-Sliema W.