The first round of the FXDD Futsal Premier League came to an end last week.

Tarxien Rainbows recorded an important win, 5-1, over fellow top-four challengers Lija Athletic.

With Tarxien picking up momentum in the last few weeks, their direct clash with Lija Athletic was an entertaining affair.

The Rainbows have now opened a two-point gap on Lija after beating Żejtun 8-5 on Tuesday.

With three Romanian internationals, Dobre, Brasonveanu and Raducu, in their line-up, the Rainbows are one of the most in-form futsal teams, and with the play-off format, the leading four teams stand an equal chance of clinching the title.

Their defeat to Tarxien was a setback for Lija whose low morale was evident in their next game on Friday when they scraped a marginal 10-7 win against a modest Valletta side.

The Citizens are badly missing the presence of their inspirational Brazilian player William Barbosa.

Lija trailed 4-2 at half-time but captain Jovica Milijic scored five goals in the second half to turn the game around.

Floriana’s negative run continued last week as they lost 5-3 to Sliema who gained their second consecutive win.

Floriana began well, going 2-0 up in the first eight minutes, but Sliema made a four-goal comeback with Omar El Ghaouti scoring three. Floriana’s Pio Sciriha was sent off in the 22nd minute for a serious foul.

As expected, Hibernians maintained their positive run with a crushing 14-2 win over bottom side Ħamrun Spartans.

Hibs, for whom Bulgaria international Boicho Marev hit five goals, are sharing top spot with champions Balzan after the latter trounced St Andrew’s 11-1 on Tuesday.

Played on Tuesday: Tarxien vs Żejtun 8-5; Balzan vs St Andrew’s 11-1.

Next fixtures: Tomorrow (Corradino): Pavilion 8pm Floriana vs Ħamrun Spartans; 9.30pm Lija Athletic vs Sliema Wanderers.

Standings: Hibs, Balzan 26 points; Żejtun Corinthians 20; Tarxien Rainbows 19; Lija Athletic 17; Sliema Wanderers 12; Floriana 11; Valletta 7; St Andrew’s 5; Ħamrun Spartans 0.