The Bank of Valletta national league gets underway today at the Tal-Qroqq pool with the opening four matches.

It is obvious that another battle for the title between local giants Neptunes and Sliema will ensue this summer, but it will be no surprise were San Giljan and may be Sirens and Exiles to offer a serious challenge.

In this preliminary round, the top teams should have an easy time against the other so-called smaller teams – Otters, Ta’ Xbiex, Valletta and Marsascala.

San Giljan will not be in action today. They open their commitments on Sunday with a match against Ta’ Xbiex.

Today’s programme

Tal-Qroqq Pool: Group A 4.15pm Otters -Ta’ Xbiex; Group B 5.30pm Sirens -Valletta; Group A 6.45pm Sliema -Exiles; Group B 8pm Marsascala-Neptunes.