Leaders Valletta will be geared up to move four points clear at the top of the Premier League standings this evening when they open their second-round commitments with a match against struggling Tarxien Rainbows at the Tedesco Stadium (kick-off: 19.30).

The Citizens come into the match in good spirits as they are unbeaten in their last six matches and back-to-back victories over Balzan (2-0) and Marsaxlokk (2-0) reinstated them to the top of the standings.

The champions, however, have not always managed to impress and coach Jesmond Zerafa will be keen to see his players opening their second-round commitments with a more committed display.

In the corresponding first round match, Valletta cantered to a 4-2 win showing their true offensive qualities with attacking trio Alfred Effiong, William Barbosa and Denni all putting their name on the scoresheet.

This evening, Zerafa will rely on a full complement as Jamie Pace and Michael Mifsud are close to full fitness.

Meanwhile, it emerged that Fredric Kisamba is no longer part of Valletta’s plans. It seems that the Congolese right-back had failed to impress during a short trial.

Patrick Curmi’s Tarxien come into this match on the back of a turbulent week which saw them slip to second bottom following a 3-0 reverse to Sliema Wanderers.

In midweek, the Rainbows also decided to part ways with Brazilian duo Rodrigo Galvao and Roberto Fagundes Saraiva.

Curmi is again expected to be without midfielder Ricardo, another Brazilian recruit. He is still nursing a hamstring injury while midfielder Manuel Caruana is down with a muscle strain.

Striker Caio Suguino returns after missing the Sliema match to serve suspension.

First round result: Valletta vs Tarxien Rainbows 4-2.