Hibs expect tough derby

Hibernians and Tarxien Rainbows are two neighbouring teams but their geographical proximity is not reflected in this season’s BOV Premier League table.

While the Paolites are flying high in second place after amassing 35 points from 16 matches, Tarxien are second bottom, a staggering 22 points behind the Paolites.

In this context, Hibs are seen as having an edge over the Rainbows ahead of their encounter this afternoon at the National Stadium (kick-off: 16.00) but it is often said that past form counts for nothing when it comes to tense derbies.

Hibs coach Mark Miller expects a strong challenge from Tarxien.

“Apart from being a derby, we’re playing a team fighting against relegation,” Miller said.

“There will be a lot of grit and resilience from Tarxien.

“There are no easy games, we know, but I’m confident. We’ve brought in Jackson Lima and Jason Lee Vandelannoite and with them in the squad, I can move players around in terms of the positions where I prefer them to play.”

Goalkeeper Mario Muscat was expected to fly in from England yesterday in time for the match as his stand-in, Luke Bonnici, was sick during the week while defenders Adrian Pulis and Ryan Camilleri are still out of contention.

Miller will check on the condi-tion of Aaron Xuereb and Edward Herrera after both picked up minor injuries but on the plus side, Brazilian forward Marcelo Diaz is back from a two-match ban.

The one-all draw against leaders Valletta last week ensured Hibs had a tranquil build-up for the derby but Miller stressed that his players have never been short of enthusiasm and commitment this season.

“To be honest, it has been like that all season,” he said.

“We were only disappointed after the 3-2 upset to Balzan as we went into that game relaxed. Apart from Balzan, the boys have been very professional. So, I don’t expect anything less. They have set the bar and the level is quite high.”

Poor results and a growing injury list have undermined Tarxien’s optimism but their fans are hoping that the importance attached to this match will motivate the players to a spirited showing.

A 2-1 defeat to fellow strugglers Mosta did little to boost Tarxien’s morale but coach Patrick Curmi took many positives from that game.

“The performances of the team have been good in recent games but luck was not on our side,” he lamented.

“The game against Mosta was one we should never have lost. We were the better side but the manner of their winning goal showed that it was not our day.

“That game is behind us now. Hibs are challenging for the title and they have a strong squad but this is a derby. We have to roll up our sleeves and give our all. Every point counts and everyone at the club is aware of our situation.”

Curmi’s resources are stretched by suspensions and injuries.

Ricardo Costa and Orosco Anonam are ruled out by suspension while striker Daniel Mariano Bueno and Justin Grioli are still sidelined with injuries. New signing Jimmy Mayasi is doubtful.

Unsurprisingly, Curmi may adopt a prudent approach this afternoon.

“Hibs are strong in midfield and attack in particular,” Curmi said. “Andrew Cohen and Tara-bai are quality players and now they have added Jackson Lima. Hibs can also rely on two fast players in Clayton Failla and Edward Herrera.

“It won’t be easy but we will try to formulate a plan to limit the damage and make the most of our chances.”

First round: Hibs vs Tarxien 2-0

Lattes joins Sliema

Floriana vs Qormi (today at 14.00, National Stadium).

Floriana will be looking to extend their unbeaten run to eight games when they take on a Qormi side high in spirits after a 3-0 defeat of Ħamrun.

Christian Caruana and Pablo Doffo are back for the Greens after suspension kept them out of the 4-0 rout of Marsaxlokk but striker Onome Sodje is out after injuring his wrist while midfielder Joseph Borg has hamstring trouble.

Qormi are set to give a debut to Malta Under-21 forward Tristan Caruana who has agreed a loan switch to the Championship Pool hopefuls as part of the deal that saw Jason Lee Vandelannoite joining Hibs last week.

Coach Stephen Azzopardi must cope without captain Joseph Farrugia and Jonathan Bondin, both suspended, while striker Daniel Nwoke has left Qormi by mutual agreement.

First round: Floriana-Qormi 1-1.

Balzan Youths vs Sliema Wanderers (tomorrow at 14.00, Hibs Stadium).

Having overcome the off-field distractions caused by the uncertainty over departed duo Jackson Lima and Jorge, as well as the dismissal of Beppe Muscat in their 1-0 win over Birkirkara, Sliema will be vying to stay on the winning track against Balzan Youths.

Argentine winger Emiliano Lattes, previously on the books of Marsaxlokk, yesterday joined Sliema until the end of the season with an option of a one-year contract extension.

Lattes, who replaces Jorge, had a very short spell with the Blues in the summer of 2010.

Coach Danilo Doncic has also been assessing a Spanish striker currently on trial at Sliema who could lose Jean Pierre Mifsud Triganza.

The striker was expected to join Valletta this week but has now set his sights on a return to Birkirkara.

Sliema were hoping to sign Alfred Effiong from Valletta but the Nigerian wants to stay with the champions.

For tomorrow’s game, Doncic will be without Muscat and Roderick Bajada, both suspended.

Balzan will be aiming to keep their Championship Pool hopes alive with another positive result.

Clifton Ciantar and Roderick Farrugia are out injured.

First round: Sliema-Balzan 1-1.

Valletta vs Mqabba (tomorrow at 16.00, Hibs Stadium).

Champions Valletta may be everyone’s favourites to beat Mqabba but they will be wary of the threat posed by their industrious opponents who are coming from a 2-2 draw with Balzan.

Jesmond Zerafa, the Valletta coach, has no selection problems.

Argentine Nahuel Pulitano Jimenez will not be considered for this match as Zerafa wants more time to properly evaluate the quali-ties of the playmaker.

Mqabba midfielder Claudio Calleja is suspended but winger Marlon Briffa is available after serving a one-match ban.

First round: Valletta-Mqabba 4-2.