Stripes to take on Naxxar Lions
by Ayrton Galea - 17th January 2014
Champions Birkirkara FC and Naxxar Lions are two of the sides that are currently enjoying winning streaks in the BOV Premier League, and both sides will be hoping to extend their run when they face-off on Saturday afternoon.
Eleven straight wins might put Birkirkara as favourites on paper, but the tactical discipline that the newly-promoted Naxxar side are showing could prove to be a very tricky encounter for the leaders of the Premier League.
Last Sunday, The Stripes wrote a new page in the Club's history, when they won eleven consecutive league matches, by beating Qormi with a 3-1 score. With Valletta held in a goal-less draw against Sliema Wanderers, the Stripes extended their lead to six points at the top of the table to establish themselves as the main contenders for the title.
On the other hand, Naxxar Lions seem to be roaring in this crucial phase of the league, as they are set to make it to the Championship Pool.
The strengthened Naxxar squad had so far impressed many of the Maltese football followers, as under the guidance of Mr. Winston Muscat, the team has stepped up its level to be one of the most surprising teams in the Premier League.
They are currently enjoying a winning streak of four matches after they defeated Tarxien Rainbows, Valletta, Vittoriosa and then Rabat Ajax in their last match to make a giant step towards reaching a Championship Pool berth, as they are fifth with twenty-seven points, six over seventh-placed Floriana.
Birkirkara are expected to be in full strength, while Naxxar will have their captain Victor Belia missing due to suspension after picking his fourth yellow card last Saturday. Pablo Doffo is also ruled out with a long-term injury.
In the first round match, a superb goal by Shola Shodiya past the half-hour mark, gave Birkirkara the three points with a narrow 1-0 victory.
The match will be played at the Victor Tedesco Stadium and is scheduled to kick off at 16:15.
Come on the Stripes!
| Last Matches Played |
|---|
|
12 May 2002 - FA Trophy
 Birkirkara FC
4-0
 Naxxar Lions FC
|
|
26 January 2002 - Premier League
Birkirkara FC
6-1
Naxxar Lions FC
|
|
13 October 2001 - Premier League
Birkirkara FC
5-1
Naxxar Lions FC
|
