Two more matches from this weekend’s programme will be played this evening at the Victor Tedesco Stadium.

In the first match, Birkirkara will be facing Balzan Youths, while in the other that follows, Mosta meet Floriana.

It seems to be a good opportunity for the Stripes to regroup after last week’s 3-2 defeat against Tarxien Rainbows - even if they have lodged a protest against that result which still has to be discussed.

Despite the return of Paul Zammit as head coach, the Stripes have failed to live up to expectations and will have to bounce back quickly if they are to avoid more setbacks which might even cause them to miss a Top Six place this season.

There is no doubt that on current form, they cannot say they are among the favourites to land one of those berths. In fact, there are several other teams offering a decent challenge, especially from among those who were earlier considered as relegation pool candidates.

Against neighbours Balzan, the Stripes will have to be at their best to collect all the three points.

The Youths made Valletta sweat hard for the three points last week even if they had to play for a long time in 10 men after the dismissal of Clifton Ciantar - he will be missing this evening as he has been suspended for two matches.

The Youths are currently in a healthy mid-table position but will certainly be eyeing a positive result today to continue improving their position.

In the other match, Floriana should be considered firm favourites to beat bottom-placed Mosta to collect three points which will make them the undisputed third placed side although Qormi will have tomorrow’s match against Hibernians in hand.

The Greens are enthusiastic after their dramatic 1-1 draw with Hibernians last weekend. That point ousted Hibernians from the top perch, favouring Valletta who are now the new leaders.

Mosta will certainly be doing their best to try and obtain a positive result. At present, nothing seems to be going right for the Blues for whom Dame Luck has not been smiling on them so far this season.

They must be aware that it will be another uphill task this evening, but they will be expected to fight on in the hope that things change to the better.