With three weeks to go for the FXDD Premier League play-offs, defending champions Balzan overtook Hibernians at the top of the table as the Paolites lost two successive games against Żejtun (9-5) and Luxol (6-4).
Hibernians were a far cry from their previous outings but Balzan registered a good win against Sliema Wanderers (11-2) to retain their unbeaten record and go top of the standings.
Glenn Bonello and Cosmin Anton were against outstanding for Balzan.
In other games played last week, Lija overcame Ħamrun 7-4 and Floriana got the best of the derby after ousting Valletta 7-3.
The Citizens are now in serious relegation trouble as Luxol are back in the reckoning thanks to their stunning win over Hibs who play third-placed Żejtun rather than Tarxien if the latter continue with their positive run.
Tarxien had a shaky start but gradually picked the pace in the second round, also holding Balzan to a draw.
Lija still retain a fighting chance to make it to the play-offs but their next match will be against Balzan before a direct clash with Tarxien on May 7.
Meanwhile, Balzan play Hibernians for the second honour of the season, the FXDD KO, at the Corradino Sports Pavilion on Friday evening.