The game’s local giants, Neptunes and Sliema, will once again clash for the national title this year having finished first and second respectively in the Premier League.

The final is played over the best of five matches, the first of which is being played this evening at the National Pool, Tal-Qroqq.

While Neptunes qualified directly for the final, Sliema had to play against San Giljan in a best of three decider which they won with two straight wins last week.

The rivalry between the two clubs will once again come to the fore in these matches with Neptunes trying to secure a third championship win in a row as well as a memorable double – they have already won the KO - and with Sliema trying to halt Neptunes’ triumphant run as well as adding the summer title to the winter championship they won earlier this season.

A large crowd is expected to throng the National Pool this evening for the first of these play-offs to determine this year’s winner, that is, the team who wins three matches.

Earlier this afternoon, Otters and Valletta will be clashing in the third and decisive play-off to earn the right to face Marsascala in the final of the first division.

Programme

Today

National Pool: 6pm First division play-off semifinal 3, Valletta Sterling-Otters Nivea; Bank of Valletta Premier Division play-off final 1 7.15pm, Neptunes Emirates-Sliema McDonalds.