Leaders Birkirkara and Ħamrun Spartans have no margin for error in their bid to mount a serious title challenge as the 360 Sports Malta Premier enters a decisive stage when the Top Six and Bottom Six get under way this weekend.
The race for Top Six is set to be an enthralling one with all six teams in the section divided by just two points with Birkirkara, who are sharing the top spot with Floriana, Marsaxlokk and Mosta, on 19 points while sixth-placed Ħamrun Spartans are on 17.
Thus every point in this second phase is set to be a crucial one and tomorrow’s clash between Birkirkara and Ħamrun Spartans will have a major impact on both side’s ambitions to win the title.
The Stripes head into the match on the back of a damaging 2-1 defeat to Sliema Wanderers at the Gozo Stadium.
Stefano De Angelis, the Birkirkara coach, said that although there was disappointment for the negative result against Sliema but has backed his players to show their true worth in this key phase of the competition.
“It was a disappointing result against Sliema but the team’s performance, particularly in the second half, was commendable, especially when one considers the number of players we were without because of injury,” De Angelis said.
“We’re aware of the intensity and strength of Ħamrun given their vast experience and numerous titles conquered in recent years.
“At the start of the season, nobody mentioned us as title challengers, but we’ve demonstrated that we are capable to compete with the very best.
“It’s vital to approach each game individually, treating every match as a final from now till the end of the season.”
De Angelis is boosted by the return of goalkeeper Gianluca Volpe and winger Manuel Morello.
Alex Satariano, who played as wingback against Sliema, is likely to return to his central midfield role and said that the team are focused on taking all three points against Ħamrun.
“We’re focusing on taking each game as it comes, ensuring our motivation remains high for every match,” Satariano said.
“I view this run-in as a positive form of pressure. Our immediate goal is to secure a win on Saturday and take it from there.
“My primary aim is always to win, and I’m committed to following the coach’s instructions to help the team achieve the desired results.”
Ħamrun Spartans are determined to finally click into top gear after they squeezed into the Top Six following a 4-0 win over Naxxar Lions.
With just two points separating the team from top spot, coach Winston Muscat is hopeful his players continue to build momentum in a bid to keep alive their title challenge.
“The past 15 days were very important for me as it provided me with the opportunity to work closely with my players, particularly the foreign recruits,” Muscat said.
“The team is starting to feel at ease with the tactical tweaks I tried to implement but obviously there is still a lot of work to do.
“Upon joining the club, I noticed the players were affected by the season’s challenges. Looking at the squad we have there is no hiding that we boast a lot of quality, but we need to believe more in ourselves.
“The upcoming match against Birkirkara is paramount for us. Our focus must be on performing at our best for 90 minutes.
“The fans have always been very important for us and their support is vital at this stage of the season to driving us toward significant achievements.”
Goalkeeper Henry Bonello, who caught the headlines on Monday after scoring against Naxxar Lions, said that despite all the challenges faced the goal remained the same – to try and win every match.
“This season hasn’t been favourable, but I always strive to give my utmost,” Bonello said.
“Securing three points is my primary goal.
“This has been one of the most challenging seasons in my career. Nevertheless, mentally strong players understand the necessity of winning every match.
“Our supporters play a crucial role; their strong presence in Gozo was appreciated, and I urge them to turn out in even greater numbers on Saturday to help us reach our objectives.”
