Amid talk of grand celebrations to mark Valletta’s imminent title triumph, their fans are relishing the opportunity to offer a taste of things to come if, as expected, their team seal their championship mission by taking a point from tomorrow’s encounter with Marsaxlokk (kick-off: 5 p.m.).

Expectations of a City fiesta at the National Stadium are sky-high as their supporters are itching to kick off their title party after a three-year wait.

Twelve points clear and still unbeaten after 24 matches, Valletta have justified cause to fancy their chances of securing the league championship but they will be wary of the threat Marsaxlokk are likely to pose.

The Blues still have a lot to play for in their remaining four matches as they are still in the hunt for the runners-up spot and a lucrative berth in the Europa League.

Marsaxlokk received a significant psychological tonic yesterday after the Malta FA Protests Board threw out Floriana’s challenge against the result of their clash with the southseasiders which ended 1-1.

Valletta coach Jesmond Zerafa acknowledged that Marsaxlokk will be no pushovers.

“It’s a difficult game, no doubt... everyone is aware of Marsaxlokk’s potential,” Zerafa said.

“They are one of the most competitive teams but my players are ready for this game because they have been waiting, match after match, to close the title issue.

“I believe that, in light of our fine performances in the last few games and the quality of our squad, our players can make it easy for themselves to gain three important points.”

With a full squad at his disposal, Zerafa is spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting his team.

His starting XI is unlikely to differ much from that of last week’s 5-0 annihilation of Ħamrun but it is safe to assume that captain Gilbert Agius, one of Valletta’s star per-formers in the last two months, will be restored to the first team after his influential cameo on Friday.

Zerafa has done a great job in keeping all the players focused and motivated, especially those who have not been regular starters.

His sternest challenge is to ensure that his troops maintain maximum concentration.

“It’s not easy to handle a strong squad like ours,” Zerafa said.

“You have to strive harder to keep all the players happy. But, I think this is the secret of Valletta this season because when you have a group of players who are all willing to work hard to win, that really makes a coach’s job much easier.

“We started favourites to win the league. To tell the truth, I’m more satisfied than I thought I would be at this stage of the season because we’ve had a very good run in the league... we have reached a point where we are very close to winning the title with four matches to spare.

“However, we must stay cautious and take one game at a time.

“You must always be alert to keep the players’ feet on the ground so that they are prepared for every challenge but as I said, this squad has got great potential as our players have the experience and character to succeed.

“We have come this far also thanks to the backing of the com-mittee, president and fans.”

If Floriana and Birkirkara fail to win their matches this weekend, Valletta will be declared champions without kicking a ball. Marsaxlokk would also welcome such scenario as that would increase their chances of claiming second place.

“Our remaining four games are all finals,” Marsaxlokk coach Patrick Curmi said.

“We are still in the running to finish second and qualify for the Europa League but Floriana, Birkirkara and, to a certain extent Tarxien, are also in the race.

“Any points gained from our match against Valletta would be an added bonus for us. It’s going to be a very difficult game but the fact that Valletta will probably be more concerned with getting the point they need to win the title is perhaps a slight advantage for us.”

Like his Valletta counterpart, Curmi has no selection problems.

Argentine forward Julio Alcorse is back in contention after com-pleting a 28-day ban imposed by the club for disciplinary reasons.

Curmi was pleased with his side’s showing in their 1-1 draw with Flo-riana.

“I was satisfied with our performance,” Curmi said.

“I tought we had the edge over Floriana and that’s why I’m disappointed that we didn’t win.

“We conceded a late equaliser against the run of play but credit to Christian Cassar because he scored a fine goal.”

Results so far: Valletta vs Marsaxlokk 2-0, 0-0, 1-1.