Floriana to face Tarxien in second round

The second round draw from the U*Bet FA Trophy provided an enticing tie as Floriana were drawn to face Tarxien Rainbows yesterday.

The clash between the Greens and the Rainbows is the only match featuring two Premier League teams against each other as the other top-flight clubs in the draw, namely Qormi, Ħamrun Spartans and Dingli Swallows, were kept apart and paired with Division One opposition.

Qormi were handed a comfortable tie when they were drawn against St Patrick but the same cannot be said of Ħamrun Spartans who face a tricky test against Division One pacesetters Marsaxlokk.

In the other tie of the round, Dingli Swallows will play Balzan Youths.

The match between Floriana and Tarxien Rainbows is without doubt the most attractive tie of the round as it pits against each other two teams who are currently fighting for a place in the Championship Pool.

In the two league meetings this season, Floriana and Tarxien drew the first round match 1-1 while the Rainbows prevailed in the second round 2-1.

Ħamrun Spartans vs Marsaxlokk is also expected to be an interesting clash with the Spartans seeking revenge after they were ousted by the southerners in the quarter-finals of last season's competition.

The four second round matches will be played on February 20 and 21. The winners join holders Sliema Wanderers, Valletta, Hibernians and Birkirkara in the quarter-finals.