With Malta's BOV Premier League title issue going to the wire over the next weekend, the Malta Independent looks back at the season which could be or could be not decided this coming Saturday. Incidentally both Valletta and Balzan are still with a chance of lifting the "double".

So, who were the best players from the respective elite teams this season?

The Malta Independent Sports correspondent Domenic Aquilina made his choices.

Valletta FC

Argentine Santiago Malano enjoyed a fine season for title contenders Valletta. His intelligent play in midfield was a joy to watch. 

25-year-old Oman international Raed Saleeb Saleh proved to be a very interesting young promise.

Balzan FC

Rock solid Columbian defender Elkin Serrano Valero in his third season for the Balzan outfit confirmed his status as one of the best central defenders in Malta's top elite division. "Veteran" local Paul Fenech has to be the other. 

He performed at top level for Balzan who together with Valletta go into the last fixture vying to lift the title for the first time in their history.

Gzira United FC

Gzira made it to the UEFA Europa League through a team effort. 

Not easy to pick the best from this side but loyalist goalie Anthony Curmi and Amadou Samb have to be my choices.  Samb banged in 21 goals and should carry the "Top Scorer" title for this season.

Birkirkara FC

The Stripes endured quite a lot of changes during the course of the season, with foreigners coming and going. The FA Trophy could salvage their season.

In my view two locals stood out for Zammit's side - young defender Cain Attard and Ryan Scicluna back in the fray after experiencing a "not-in-favour" season.

Floriana FC

So disappointing for the Greens. The team needs a total reshuffle.  Many have been there for too long and have become mediocre. 

Argentine Enzo Ruiz and Maurizio Vella are the only two survivors who performed this season.

Hibernians FC

A season, which completely went wrong for the outgoing champions. 

Not too much to choose from - established Malta defender Andrei Agius and newcomer Dunstan Vella stood out for the Paolites.

Sliema Wanderers FC

Still very much in line for the FA Trophy the Wanderers lacked consistency as in previous seasons. 

Argentine Mathias Muchardi was his usual self in midfield as in previous seasons.  John Mintoff made a welcome return in his new advanced defensive role and delivered.

Hamrun Spartans FC

After an explosive start to the season, the Spartans slowed down and seemed happy with a mid-table position. 

Despite an injury in the latter part of the season goalkeeper Jake Galea proved himself as one of the best custodians in the league with captain Triston Caruana being the other convincing member of this Spartans side.

Senglea Athletic FC

Interesting side. At times they made life difficult for the big guns. 

The never tiring Hubert Vella was a true example of commitment.  Former Valletta defender Jonathan Bondin is my other choice.  Big hearts from these guys!

St. Andrews FC

St. Andrews was another side that gave a good rendition of themselves even against the big clubs. 

Needless to say, despite his well-carried age - 36 - captain Joseph Farrugia remains the leader of this team - a true example to aspiring young footballers.  Jamaican striker Kemar Reid also had a fine season for the "Violets"

Mosta FC

Inconsistent side. 

Young goalkeeper Andreas Vella emerged as one of the most promising custodians between the posts. 

25-year-old Brazilian winger Leonardo Henrique Ferreira was always a threat to opposing defenses and wins my vote as one of the most interesting players of the season.

Tarxien Rainbows FC

The Rainbows stuttered in the early stages of this season but got back in line with convincing displays.

Ricardinho was one of the most dangerous strikers around.  Lethal finishing from the Brazilian with 10 goals to his credit. Goalkeeper Andrea Cassar proved his worth in goal for the Rainbows.

Naxxar Lions FC

Another club with players often coming and going, the Lions stuttered in the top division. 

Argentine Daniel Mateo Bustos and Algerian Djilali Belhadj who arrived in January are my best picks.

Lija Athletic FC

The first team to be relegated this season.  Still they played with pride and great enthusiasm. 

Captain Daniel Scerri was always the tenacious player we are used to see.  Albanian Erjon Beu was also a joy to watch with his direct runs at opponents.