Holders Sliema Wanderers face Għajnsielem in FA Trophy second round

The 85th edition of the FA Trophy continues in January with the second round ties, with Sliema Wanderers, the current holders and record 22-time winners, set to face Għajnsielem in their opening match as they aim to secure an unprecedented 23rd triumph.

Floriana, who boast 21 FA Trophy victories and were last season’s runners-up, will take on another Gozitan side, Xewkija Tigers, as they look to close the gap on Sliema’s record.

Elsewhere, Birkirkara, who currently share the top spot in the Premier League with Floriana, face a bottom-of-the-table Balzan side.

Hibernians are set to clash with Żebbuġ Rangers, while Ħamrun Spartans meet Swieqi United.

Mosta, fresh from their midweek victory over the Spartans, were drawn with Premier League side Marsaxlokk.

Meanwhile, Valletta, now competing in the Challenge League, will face SK Victoria Wanderers.

In an all-Gozitan affair, Victoria Hotspurs, now in Malta’s Amateur League II, go head-to-head with Xagħra United.

Gozo top-flight leaders Qala Saints will take on St. Andrews.

DRAWS

ROUND OF 32 (JANUARY 10-12)
1) Żurrieq vs Mellieħa
2) Naxxar Lions vs Melita
3) Xagħra United vs Victoria Hotspurs
4) Floriana vs Xewkija Tigers
5) Lija Athletic vs Żabbar St. Patrick
6) Ħamrun Spartans vs Swieqi United
7) Qala Saints vs St Andrews
8) Hibernians vs Żebbuġ Rangers
9) Pietà Hotspurs vs Marsa
10) Sliema Wanderers vs Għajnsielem
11) Gżira United vs Gudja United
12) Valletta vs SK Victoria Wanderers
13) Marsaxlokk vs Mosta
14) Sirens vs Qrendi
15) Fgura United vs Attard
16) Birkirkara vs Balzan

ROUND OF 16 (FEBRUARY 4-6)
1) Winner Match 1 vs Winner Match 2
2) Winner Match 3 vs Winner Match 4
3) Winner Match 5 vs Winner Match 6
4) Winner Match 7 vs Winner Match 8
5) Winner Match 9 vs Winner Match 10
6) Winner Match 11 vs Winner Match 12
7) Winner Match 13 vs Winner Match 14
8) Winner Match 15 vs Winner Match 16

FULL CALENDAR

QUARTER-FINALS (MARCH 4-5)
SEMI-FINALS (MAY 10/11 OR MAY 13/14)
FINAL (MAY 17 OR MAY 18)