With phase one of the Kinnie League nearing completion, tomorrow afternoon's clash between Hamrun Liberty Go Mobile and Siggiewi has assumed added significance.

Both teams are expected to go into their head-to-head encounter with all guns blazing as they bid to avoid the fourth place which means starting the play-off series with a minus one win handicap to Fiat Luxol.

Today's game, between Luxol and Stingers, will not have a bearing on the standings as John Tabone's team is already sure of top place whereas Stingers will have to figure in the Promotion Pool.

Luxol, still fresh from their first ever Louis Borg Cup success earlier this month, start favourites to extend their positive run. Their experience, coupled with the players' all-round prowess, should give them the edge.

Losing two cup finals in a short space of time was a severe blow for Hamrun. Another defeat this weekend will seriously dent their hopes of claiming a top-three berth at the expense of imminent opponents Siggiewi.

Both teams will be without their regular playmakers, who are injured. Siggiewi will be hoping that pivot Jeffrey Gatt proves his fitness in time as his absence was sorely felt in the 76-64 defeat to Pembroke last week.

In the women's league, unbeaten leaders Depiro Still, who during the week disposed of Naxxar 72-54, should maintain their winning trend against Luxol Vodafone.

Tomorrow, Hibs Go Mobile are likely to beat Hamrun Liberty Tivoli again. The latter were no match for Achille Pace's girls last weekend in the BoV Cup final.

Meanwhile, the First Division KO final between Floriana and Depiro will take place today at 3.15 p.m.

Players of the month

Hibs Go Mobile captain Lucienne Bezzina has just been named by the Malta Basketball Association as the best female player in January.

Siggiewi and national team player Nathan Farrugia won the men's honour for the second time this season.