Champions Neptunes Emirates need to recover from their recent setback to entertain any hopes of retaining the title they won in the last three seasons.

Back-to-back defeats against San Giljan Sir Alex and Sliema Frank Salt Real Estate, saw them concede the top spot to main challengers San Giljan and seemed to have also dented their spirits, with only two matches to play.

Trailing San Giljan by three points after 10 games, Neptunes face Sirens Ritter Sport tomorrow (7.15pm) and then have to play San Giljan on Saturday 31 August. In between, Neptunes play Sliema in the Premier Knock-Out final next Tuesday.

If Neptunes win their remaining two league matches, and San Giljan do not falter against Exiles Ferretti next weekend, then a probable decider is in the offing.

In today’s Premier League match, which is of little importance, third-place Sliema play Exiles (7.15pm) in a warm-up for their upcoming Knock-Out final. Sliema are going through a fine patch of form at this stage and should start as clear favourites to win this match.

First Division champions Valletta United play Otters Nivea tomorrow (6pm), with their minds focused on next Tuesday’s First Division knock-out final against Marsascala Mor€, as they chase a memorable ‘double’ this season.