Stripes target win to close in on top prize

Leaders Birkirkara have their sights firmly set on victory when they meet outgoing champions Hibernians tomorrow at the National Stadium (kick-off 5 p.m.).

With only three matches left, Birkirkara will have one hand on the Premier League trophy if they collect maximum points from this encounter with the Paolites who have nothing to play for bar pride.

Birkirkara's excellent form in the last two months is in stark contrast with the inept performances of Hibs.

While the Stripes kept their title bid on track with a 3-1 win over Qormi last week, Hibs slumped to their sixth consecutive defeat after losing 3-1 to Valletta.

Hibs must raise their game by several notches if they are to end their depressing run and boost their morale ahead of their final two matches, especially their final-day derby against Tarxien.

Paul Zammit, the Birkirkara coach, is not expected to make changes. Veteran defender Branko Nisevic is likely to pass a fitness test and play after recovering from the adductor strain that forced him to leave the pitch in the second half of the Qormi victory.

Hibs coach Mark Miller must have been heartened by his team's battling display against Valletta. Midfielder Christian Callejas is set to return after shaking off an injury but Portuguese forward Miguel Lopes de Pina is doubtful.

Results so far: Birkirkara vs Hibs 2-2, 2-2, 2-1.

Floriana vs Dingli Swallows (today at 3 p.m., National Stadium)

Zoran Popovic, the Floriana coach, is likely to draft several young players in his first team. Stefan Lijeskic and Stefano Grima are available after serving their one-match ban in the 1-1 draw against Msida.

Dingli coach Jesmond Zammit is also expected to make some changes to his starting line-up. Brazilian Andre Rocha Da Silva is sidelined with a hamstring problem and Renato Conceicao is doubtful with an ankle injury.

For some players, today's match is expected to be their last for the Swallows whose relegation was confirmed a while ago. Having made a couple of cameo appearances for Dingli this season, veteran David Camilleri is in line to start today's match.

Results so far: Floriana vs Dingli 1-2, 2-0, 3-0.

Tarxien vs Qormi (today at 5 p.m., National Stadium)

Tarxien and Qormi will be bidding to return to winning ways after both were on the receiving end in their last outings.

Tarxien went down 2-0 to Sliema and Qormi suffered a 3-1 defeat to Birkirkara.

Qormi will be under greater pressure than Tarxien today as Jesmond Zerafa's team are gunning for third place whereas the Rainbows are out of the running for a top-four finish.

Looking at the broader picture, both teams are keen to hit top form and boost their spirits ahead of the FA Trophy semi-finals next month.

Noel Coleiro, the Tarxien coach, can't rely on Anderson Ribeiro as the Brazilian striker is recovering from a fractured toe. Luke Vella Critien is also doubtful.

Defender Roderick Sammut is still struggling with an ankle problem but otherwise, Zerafa has a full squad at his disposal.

Results so far: Tarxien vs Qormi 1-2, 2-0, 0-2.

Ħamrun vs Msida (tomorrow at 3 p.m., National Stadium)

Ħamrun will be looking to end their Premier League campaign on a winning note when they clash with Msida who will play in the second tier of Maltese football next season.

Steve D'Amato, the Ħamrun coach, is again expected to promote a host of youngsters to the first team. Jonathan Holland and Aaron Attard are sidelined with injuries and Mark Anthony Bonnici has been laid low by flu.

Msida players Adrian Farrugia and Kurt Grech are set for a first-team recall after suspension kept them out of the 1-1 draw with Floriana.

Results so far: Ħamrun vs Msida 1-0, 2-0, 5-3.