Ħamrun Spartans are expected to inch closer towards salvation this evening when they take on the already-doomed Marsaxlokk at the Victor Tedesco Stadium (kick-off: 18.00).
The Reds are currently eighth in the standings with 22 points, five ahead of second-bottom Mqabba and within touching distance of the safety line.
Both teams come into the match in contrasting form.
Ħamrun are in good spirits following a 1-1 draw with Mosta that preserved their unbeaten streak in the Relegation Pool, but on the other hand Marsaxlokk take the field with little motivation after their fate was sealed following their 5-1 upset to Qormi.
Stefan Sultana, the Ħamrun coach, is refusing to take this match lightly, however, and is urging his players to focus on their job.
“There have been suggestions that Marsaxlokk will be easy prey but that’s not the case,” Sultana told The Times.
“Sure, they’re already relegated but their players will still be keen to show their qualities so we must avoid overconfidence.
“A win will be a huge boost for our aspirations and I’m urging my players to give their all and complete the job.”
Sultana is still sweating on the fitness of striker Dene Shields while Gianluca Calabretta is out with a one-match ban.
On a more positive note, Matthew Gauci is back from suspension while defender Rode-rick Fenech may well make his first appearance for the club after completing his rehabiliation from a cruciate injury.
Marsaxlokk are coming from a turbulent week also off-field following the resignation of club president Renato Attard.
Clive Brincat will miss today’s match with knee trouble while Sunday Eboh and Peter Oladotun are rated as doubtful.
Results so far: Marsaxlokk vs Ħamrun Spartans 5-3, 2-6, 1-6.
Only pride will be at stake in today’s second match as Sliema Wanderers take on Balzan Youths (kick-off 8.15 p.m.).
The Blues, currently fifth on 20 points, will be keen to at least defend their placing in the standings as the Youths only trail their opponents by three points.
Sliema are sure to be without defender Rumen Galabov, who is set to miss the rest of the season with a torn muscle, while Cleaven Frendo and Andrew Decesare are still sidelined by injury.
Striker Jerry Ani has a swollen knee and is unlikely to feature.
Balzan’s only point in the Cham-pionship Pool so far came after a thrilling 3-3 draw against Sliema.
The Youths’ aspirations of win-ning their first match in the top six is boosted by the return of striker Pedrinho. Defender Clifton Ciantar is out with a groin injury while Roderick Farrugia and Yessous Camilleri both carry niggling knee injuries.
Results so far: Sliema vs Balzan 1-1, 1-2, 3-3.