Hibs midfielder Bjorn Kristensen hits a pass despite the challenge of Balzan duo Dylan Grima (no. 10) and Matteo Piciollo.

Hibernians and Balzan will go out with all guns blazing as they look to seize control in this year’s title race with victory in tomorrow’s mouth-watering top of the table clash at the National Stadium (kick-off: 4pm).

At present, Hibs are leading the standings, two points ahead of Balzan with third-placed Valletta, who face an equally tricky test against neighbours Floriana, lurking only three points behind.

Hibs and Balzan produced two fascinating encounters in the league earlier this season. In the end, however, it was always Balzan who managed to gain the edge thanks mainly to their attacking trio of Bojan Kaljevic, Alfred Effiong and Alan Da Silva Souza.

But the Paolites are in a good run of form after winning their last three matches. Wingback Clayton Failla said his team is now ready to take sporting revenge over their direct rivals.

“We have failed to beat Balzan this season and that alone is a good motivation for us to settle this issue and step up our title challenge,” Failla said.

“However, we are also aware that Balzan are one of the strongest teams in the division. Our approach will not be different to what it has been against Mosta and Pembroke though. We are totally focused and taking on one match at a time.

“We started the season with the aim to qualify for Europe and that remains our priority. However, we’re in a position to achieve a higher objective now so we will give it our best shot.”

Hibs are boosted with the return of defender Rui De Gracia Gomes who trained regularly this week after a long spell on the sidelines due to injury.

Oliver Spiteri, the Balzan coach, must effect at least one change to his starting formation as midfielder Anderson is ruled out with a one-match ban following a red card in the 1-0 upset to Valletta before last month’s international break.

This is the first time in Balzan’s history that they’re engaged in a challenge for the league title. It’s almost an entirely new experience for the club but they know they can rely on a group of top-notch players who boast championship and cup medals from previous stints with other teams.

Paul Fenech, who won the league with former club Birkirkara, has bags of experience in such situations and admitted that given the fine margins that exist between the three leading clubs, Balzan have little room for error against Hibs tomorrow.

“This match is crucial and our aspirations depend on us winning matches of this quality,” the Malta midfielder said.

“With only seven matches remaining, victory over Hibs will keep us in the hunt. The loss to Valletta complicated matters for us but that is fully behind us now and we have to look forward.

“Hibs have a great side but this fixture presents us with a perfect opportunity to beat a direct contender and go back top of the table.”

Results so far: Balzan vs Hibs 2-0, 2-1.