Marsaxlokk and Ħamrun Spartans meet on Tuesday evening in the opening fixture of Matchday 6 of the YoHealth Malta Premier, with both sides currently on nine points after five matches. Kick-off is set for 18:45 at the Tony Bezzina Stadium.
Marsaxlokk are coming off a 2-1 defeat to Floriana last Saturday. It was a closely contested match that could have gone either way, but a solo effort from Mustapha Jah and a superb free kick by Jake Grech handed the Southsiders their second loss of the season. Despite the result, Marsaxlokk were competitive throughout and created several chances, but couldn’t find a way past a solid Floriana back line beyond their lone goal.
Ħamrun Spartans, meanwhile, were held to a goalless draw against winless Gżira United in what was a frustrating outing for the reigning champions. It’s increasingly evident that their focus on the UEFA Conference League group stage is affecting their domestic form.
Giacomo Modica’s side has been strong at the back, conceding only two goals in five matches, but their attacking output has been underwhelming, with just five goals scored.
The last time these two sides met was in April, when Ħamrun edged Marsaxlokk 1-0 thanks to a goal from Raphael Lopes, a result that helped them secure a spot in the play-offs before eventually going on to win the title.
Tuesday’s fixture offers both teams an opportunity to make a statement and gain momentum as the league table begins to take shape.
