The Bank of Valletta Premier League resumes this evening with two matches – the Relegation Pool clash between Sliema and Hibernians and a Championship Pool match between Tarxien Rainbows and Marsaxlokk.

In the first match, Hibernians will certainly be aiming to get the three points – even a draw may suffice – to increase the gap between them and bottom placed club Vittoriosa Stars.

The match had to be played last Monday but was moved to today in view of the poor condition of the surface of the Hibs Stadium after the two matches played on Saturday under a continuous downpour.

The Paolites were relieved after their win against Vittoriosa – they moved to a healthier place on 11 points, five above the Stars.

If they win again this evening, they will have an eight-point cushion over the bottom placed Stars who will have practically no chance to bridge that gap in the remaining four matches.

But Hibernians must be aware that Sliema are not yet mathematically safe even if they have a healthy lead over their rivals in the Pool.

The Blues know that not everything is settled yet, but considering their last performances under new coach Danilo Doncic, then they are set to finish the season on a high.

In this evening’s other match, Tarxien and Marsaxlokk will face each other in the hope that they garner all the points at stake to maintain their chances in the interesting battle for the second and third places which, at present, also involves Floriana, Hamrun S., and Birkirkara.

Birkirkara are second on 18 points, followed by Floriana on 17, Marsaxlokk on 16, Tarxien on 15 and Hamrun on 14.

The southern seasiders are optimistic about their chances of winning this evening after their excellent performance against Valletta in which they collected a precious point from a deserved 1-1 draw.

They should make the most of the problems facing the Rainbows at present. The latter have suffered two consecutive heavy defeats and their morale is low at present.

Noel Coleiro’s side seems to be struggling to find the form showed until three weeks ago, but if they manage to return to winning form, then their chances of landing a place in European football next season will certainly improve.

Today’s programme:

At Hibernians Stadium:

Bank of Valletta Premier League- 6pm Sliema W.-Hibernians; 8pm Tarxien R.-Marsaxlokk.