Sirens' credentials face Sliema test

2X Sirens are in for their first stern test in this season's Wilkinson Sword Winter League when they face Sliema Burger King in today's main match at the National Pool, starting at 5 p.m.

The St Paul's Bay outfit enjoyed a comfortable opener a fortnight ago, strolling past Marsaxlokk Freeport 19-2 in a match that saw nine players of Sirens' 13-man squad putting their names on the scoresheet.

However, John Farrugia's team are expected to have a much tougher assignment against a Sliema team eager to show they are on the right track after a rather indifferent start to the league. The Blues have only one win to show after two outings after going down 17-11 to rivals Neptunes before they registered their first win last weekend against Marsaxlokk (16-4).

Sliema certainly cannot afford another slip-up if they are to keep up the pace with Neptunes who are on maximum points after two matches.

On the other hand, Sirens, last year's summer champions, will look to maintain their 100 per cent record to join Neptunes at the top.

The opening match of the day is between two teams who faced each other in the Division Two league last year.

San Giljan start favourites to bag their first win of the season against a Marsaxlokk side who are struggling to hold their own in the league.

Both teams have yet to score a point but the Saints can bank on a stronger and more experienced squad with the likes of Tony Galea and John Xerri de Caro at the disposal of coach Joe Attard.