All pressure is on Sliema ahead of Old Firm derby, says Floriana coach Portela

Floriana coach Daniel Portela ramped up the pressure on rivals Sliema Wanderers as he believes the Blues face a must-win scenario as the two traditional rivals face off in a top-of-the-table clash this afternoon (kick-off: 4pm).

The Greens are currently sitting comfortably at the top of the Top Six, four points clear of nearest rivals Ħamrun Spartans and Sliema Wanderers, and another win this afternoon would put them on pole to win the Opening Round of this year’s championship.

Portela said his team were ready for what he described as one of the ‘biggest fixtures in Maltese football’.

“Every match is like a final, and we are also aware that Floriana vs Sliema is one of the biggest fixtures in Maltese football,” Portela said.

“Every game is a big challenge. We’re expecting a difficult match for both teams.

We won’t change our game plan; we’re aware of Sliema’s strengths ahead of Saturday.

It all depends on us, but the pressure is on Sliema, not on us, since our top spot is already secured for the end of the year.

“However, we’re still fully prepared to win. It’s a good test to see if we’re strong enough, maintain our distance, stay consistent and make a step closer in winning the Opening Round.”

On his part, Floriana captain Dunstan Vella said that Floriana have their fate in their own hands.

“Every match feels like a final, and with just three games left in this Opening Round, we know Sliema’s quality, and we’ll give our all to secure the three points,” Vella said.

“We don’t depend on other results; it’s a privilege to play in matches like these.

“We approach this game calmly but with full awareness of its importance in keeping our cushion at the top of the table.

“Sliema have a very united squad, and that’s their biggest strength.”

Sliema coach Paul Zammit was in bullish mood as he praised the efforts of his players who have managed to keep their side competitive even in challenging times.

“I’m very proud of my players; the statistics speak for themselves,” Zammit said.

We’re in second place and one of only two teams that made it to the Jubilee Cup final.

“This group of players keeps us competitive. We’ll face a Floriana side that is collectively very strong. In tight matches, they’ve shown great resilience, and credit goes to them.

“In the Top 6, every match is equally important.

“It’s part of our journey, there will always be hurdles, but the strength of my players lies in their ability to bounce back as we showed in the strong second half last Sunday against Valletta.”

On his part, Sliema defender Jean Borg said that the Blues have shown real character in recent weeks and have what it takes to challenge for honours.

“Losing the Jubilee Cup was very tough, but thankfully, we bounced back in the league against Valletta, showing our character in the second half to secure the three points,” Borg said.

“Earlier in the season, we had our ups and downs, but now we’re playing with more confidence and belief that we can challenge until the very end.

“We know Saturday’s match will be tough, but our character shines through in high-pressure games.

“We’ve struggled sometimes against lower sides, but this weekend we’re determined to rise to the occasion and end the year on a positive note.”