Two all-Premier League ties in second round

The second round of the 2010/11 U*Bet FA Trophy will feature two ties involving Premier League clubs as a result of yesterday’s draw.

The two matches set to attract most interest are those between Ħamrun Spartans and Tarxien Rainbows and Marsaxlokk vs Vittoriosa Stars.

Floriana and Hibernians, the two other top-flight teams involved in yesterday’s draw, were handed an easier route to the quarter-finals, on paper at least, after they were drawn against Division One opponents.

The Greens, who dismissed Lija Athletic 3-0 in the previous round, will face Mosta while Hibernians, who trounced Pietà Hotspurs 4-0, take on St Andrew’s. The latter defeated St George’s 2-1 in the first round.

Ħamrun and Tarxien both scored commanding victories in the first round. The Spartans demolished Melita 5-0 while the Rainbows cruised past Balzan Youths 3-1. The two Premier League sides have already met once this season, the Spartans prevailing 3-1 in a first-round match.

Marsaxlokk and Vittoriosa Stars had to battle harder than expected to book their berth in the second round as the southseasiders edged Mqabba 1-0 while the Stars came from behind to beat Gozo champions Victoria Hotspurs 4-2.

Last week’s Premier League encounter between Marsaxlokk and Vittoriosa ended 1-1.

The winners of the second round ties, to be played on December 8, will join Valletta, Sliema Wanderers, Qormi and Birkirkara in the quarter-finals which are scheduled to be played in March.

U*Bet FA Trophy second round fixtures: Marsaxlokk vs Vittoriosa Stars; Floriana vs Mosta; Ħamrun Spartans vs Tarxien Rainbows; Hibs vs St Andrew’s.