Needing a victory to secure the Premier League title, leaders Birkirkara will be fully focused on finishing the job tonight when they face Tarxien Rainbows at the National Stadium (kick-off 8 p.m.).

Buoyed by their 5-4 comeback win over Hibs on Sunday, the Stripes must be confident about taking the three points that would see them crowned Malta champions for the third time in their history.

However, after Sunday's scare against Hibs, where the Stripes had to come back from 4-1 down, coach Paul Zammit will certainly urge his players to approach their match against Tarxien with great caution.

"We are only 90 minutes away from winning the league title but we must remain cautious," Zammit said.

"Sunday's victory over Hibs was a good lesson for my players who realised that nothing comes easy in football. Tarxien are one of the most dangerous teams in the Premier League and they can make life difficult for us.

"It's imperative that we take to the field with maximum concentration but if every player gives his 100 per cent, I'm sure that we are capable of claiming the three points that would bring the title back to Birkirkara."

The Birkirkara coach has almost a full compliment at his disposal with Carlo Mamo the only player out of the equation. The left-back has been ruled out for the season after fracturing his hand during Sunday's game.

Birkirkara may be the favourites to win tonight but Tarxien coach Noel Coleiro has insisted that the Rainbows will not lie down.

"All the pressure is on Birkirkara who need to win the match to secure the league title," Coleiro said.

"For us this match has little significance in terms of classification but we still want to offer a stiff challenge to Birkirkara. Our victory over Qormi last weekend was a huge injection of confidence for the players who want to finish the season on a high.

"We will be going out to try and win the match as this is what we are meant to do."

Coleiro is unable to field his strongest formation today as Brazilian defender Everton, Manuel Caruana and Steve Sadowski have been given a one-match ban. David Camilleri, Tarxien's veteran midfielder, is set to make his 400th appearance in the top flight this evening.

Previous results: Birkirkara vs Tarxien 2-0, 5-1, 3-3.

Hibernians vs Sliema Wanderers (today, National Stadium at 6 p.m.)

Sliema Wanderers will go all out to collect the three points this evening as they look to maintain their grip on third spot and improve their chances of qualifying for the Europa League.

Mark Marlow, the Sliema coach, is buoyed by the return from suspension of Alex Muscat, Ryan Fenech, Clayton Failla and Mark Scerri. Brazilian midfielder Pedrinho is ineligible after receiving a one-match ban.

Hibernians have little to play for and coach Mark Miller is again expected to name several youngsters in his starting formation as he looks to put an end to his team's seven-match losing run.

Previous results: Hibs vs Sliema 0-1, 2-2, 1-2.

Valletta call for MFA probe

Valletta have written to the Malta FA asking them to launch an enquiry into Sunday's Premier League match between Birkirkara and Hibernians.

A copy of the letter has also been sent to the police commissioner, insiders have told The Times.

On Sunday, Birkirkara beat Hibernians 5-4 after recovering from a 4-1 deficit.

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