Hibernians vs Tarxien (today at 2 p.m., National Stadium).

In-form Tarxien Rainbows will be testing their wits against neighbouring rivals Hibernians today after holding leaders Valletta to a 2-2 draw last weekend.

This has been a superb season for Tarxien so far and victory over the champions today will take them a step closer to an unprecedented berth in the Championship Pool with another crunch match against Ħamrun coming up.

Hibs have had an up-and-down season and are still not mathematically sure of their place in the Championship Pool, even though it is hard to imagine the Paolites missing out.

The first round derby finished 2-1 in favour of Hibs but the latter will probably have to do without Christian Callejas today as the Uruguayan midfielder is struggling to shake off a knock he picked up in the 1-1 draw against Floriana. Goalkeeper Mario Muscat and defender Aaron Xuereb are back from suspension.

Tarxien coach Noel Colerio can pick his team from a full squad.

First round: Tarxien vs Hibs 1-2.

Birkirkara vs Msida (tomorrow at 2 p.m., Hibs Stadium).

Birkirkara will be looking to bounce back from their 1-0 reverse to Sliema Wanderers with a victory over second-from-bottom Msida St Joseph.

The Stripes will again be without injured trio Angus Buhagiar, George Mallia and Joseph Zerafa but Shaun Bajada returns from suspension.

Coach Paul Zammit must check on the fitness of Sylvano Comvalius who returned to the club yesterday after a short trial with Russian club Spartak Nalchik who are interested in signing the Dutch forward.

Msida come into this match with a high morale after last week's 2-1 victory over Dingli. That success ended a negative run of five consecutive defeats for the beleaguered Saints.

Msida will have Adam Spiteri and Kevin Mifsud back from suspension but Lydon Micallef is out after receiving a one-match ban.

First round: Msida vs Birkirkara 1-4.

Sliema vs Floriana (tomorrow at 4 p.m., Hibs Stadium).

This clash between the two Old Firm rivals carries great significance as both Sliema and Floriana are pushing for a place in the Championship Pool.

The Wanderers, regarded by many as title candidates in the summer, will be looking to make it three wins on the trot and secure a berth in the top six.

For Floriana, the stakes can't be higher as a win tomorrow will keep them in with a shout for a place in the Championship Pool.

Sliema are expected to be at full strength but the same cannot be said of Floriana who have to deal with several injury problems.

This week, defender Owen Bugeja joined Luke Agius, Marlon Briffa and long-term absentees Sunday Eboh and Christian Cassar on the sidelines.

First round: Floriana vs Sliema 1-1.