Sliema McDonald’s and San Ġiljan Firetech will be vying for the right to take on adversaries and newly-crowned champions Neptunes Emirates in the final of the BOV Knock-Out when they meet in the second semi-final this evening at the National Pool, starting at 6 p.m.

Still smarting from their failure to set up a decider against Neptunes for the league title, Sliema are expected to go into their match against San Ġiljan with all guns blazing.

Victory would not only keep Sliema in contention to win the KO, it would also give them the chance to gain a measure of revenge on their rivals from Balluta Bay who are gunning for the double.

The Blues’ determination to advance to the final is likely to be matched by San Ġiljan who are also relishing the prospect of facing the Reds in Sunday’s final.

The despicable incidents that marred the last league encounter between Neptunes and San Ġiljan, won by the former 16-13, served as a reminder that there is no love lost between these two neighbouring rivals.

Neptunes enjoyed a smooth passage to the final after they crushed Sirens Ritter Sport 23-7 on Wednesday.

While Sliema received a bye to the semis, San Ġiljan booked their place in the last four after battling past Exiles 14-13 in a pulsating match on Tuesday that was decided in extra-time.

Although Sliema were gutted after losing 10-9 to Neptunes in Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash, they will take heart from their plucky display. No doubt, coach Sergio Afric will be hoping that the players’ anger at their failed title defence bid will increase their motivation to gain success in the KO.

Sliema have a perfect three-out-of-three record against San Ġiljan in the championship this season. The Blues recorded a 10-7 victory over the Saints in their last league meeting.