Title favourites clash in top match

Two major BOV Premier League challengers will clash against each other this evening as champions Valletta take on last season's runners-up Marsaxlokk (kick-off 8 p.m.). Both teams experienced a frustrating opening to their league trek.

On Monday, Valletta looked on the way to start their title defence with a victory over other strong contenders Sliema Wanderers when leading 1-0 courtesy of a gem from Brazilian debutant Marcelo Tolomeotti. However, the Citizens suffered a dip in physical fitness on the restart and their hopes of picking up all points were extinguished five minutes from time when the Blues hit an equaliser through Ivan Woods.

A day earlier, Marsaxlokk were on the brink of a shock defeat to newly-promoted Qormi.

The southseasiders, who along with Valletta were among the most active clubs in this summer's transfer window, were expected to roll over Jesmond Zerafa's team who were making their first appearance in the top flight after almost three decades.

But, the Yellows threw out the form book and took a surprise lead through Brazilian striker Josivan Da Silva four minutes into the second half. Some stout defending saw Qormi frustrate their more-fancied opponents but deep into stoppage time Julio Alcorse netted a dramatic equaliser.

A significant improvement is a must for Brian Talbot's men if they are to upset the champions. Valletta will be seeking some kind of revenge on Marsaxlokk who spoiled their title-winning party last May when beating City 4-0.

This season, Valletta and Marsaxlokk have already met in the Euro Challenge Cup and the latter again denied the Citizens any cause for celebration when netting a last-gasp goal through Marcelo Perreira for a 2-2 draw that foiled Valletta's hopes of winning the pre-season competition.

Valletta defender Luke Dimech, formerly of Marsaxlokk, saw red in that match and his dismissal cost him a two-match ban that was completed last Monday. The Malta international will be back in the City squad this evening but goalkeeper Andrew Hogg is still out with an ankle injury while Steve Bezzina has yet to recover from dehydration following Monday's match against Sliema.

Marsaxlokk are sweating on the fitness of Argentine Alcorse who is struggling with a pulled hamstring while the same injury is likely to rule out Clive Brincat from the match.

On the plus side for Marsaxlokk is the return of Brazilian Perreira who skipped the Qormi match through suspension.