Floriana seem to have a pretty good chance of moving further ahead of their other two rivals in the battle for the runner-up placing this weekend.

Floriana lead the trio on 27 points, two ahead of Birkirkara who have 25 and four ahead of Marsaxlokk who are on 23 points.

This afternoon Floriana take on bottom placed Hamrun Spartans, while Marsaxlokk will be facing Tarxien Rainbows. On Monday Birkirkara will be facing newly crowned champions Valletta.

It is definitely a programme in favour of the Greens with just three more matches to go for the end of the championship.

Michael Woods’ side has shown a lot of determination and fighting spirit in their latest matches and have created a certain atmosphere which is looking healthy in their efforts to return to European football after a long absence.

Now that they are close to achieving their aim, they will not be expected to allow the Spartans to spoil their applecart.

However, they will have to be on the alert as the Spartans, despite having no further interest in the proceedings, inflicted an unexpected surprise on Birkirkara last week as they held them to a 2-2 draw.

In the other match this afternoon, Marsaxlokk take on Tarxien Rainbows.

The southern seasiders are aware that they cannot afford to lose more points at this stage. In fact, they must win today’s clash to maintain their hopes of catching up with Floriana in the remaining matches, assuming of course, that the Greens might lose some points in the process.

Marsaxlokk will start as favourites to beat the Rainbows for whom this match – as the two others remaining - will serve as good preparation for their task ahead in the FA Trophy semifinal.

A preview of Monday’s match between Valletta and Birkirkara will appear in Monday’s issue.