Valletta seek to inflict first defeat on Hibernians in big weekend clash

After comfortably beating eternal rivals Floriana 4-1 last week, the champions will attempt to close the gap on unbeaten leaders Hibernians.  Branko Nisevic’s men currently sit on 40 points from fourteen matches winning thirteen in the process and enjoying a twelve point lead over their nearest rivals.

Fourteen games into the season and the Paolites are still yet to taste defeat.  However, for today’s clash they come up against an in-form Valletta side which scored ten goals in their last two matches.  With several of Valletta’s big name players rediscovering their form of late among those being foreign players Lateef Elford-Alliyu and Hamza Barry, Valletta certainly possess the firepower to end Hibernians’ dominant run.

For Hibernians’ part, possession will be crucial in containing their opponents’ attack, while at the same time relying on the individual brilliance of Clayton Failla and top scorer Tarabai to threaten an often vulnerable Valletta defence.  The two have scored a combined twenty four goals between them already this season, showing no signs of easing off.

While both sides will aim to remain strong defensively, the norm in such games is winning the midfield battles which often prove to be the decisive factor in winning and losing matches.  Both teams possess technical players with the ability to create and score goals.  Young midfielder Bjorn Kristensen has the ability to dictate play with his long range passing.  Alongside him in the middle of the park will most likely be Rodolfo Suarez and Clayton Failla containing the perfect mix to win the battle in midfield.

For Valletta to get a result they will have to remain very compact defensively.  Their defence though having only conceded eight goals has often looked vulnerable when seriously threatened.  The two full backs may prove to be a threat with their constant runs forward and if effective, can cause the Hibernians defence problems.  In Midfield the Whites will look for in form players Roderick Briffa and Ryan Fenech to dictate play and alongside them the attacking threat of Hamza Barry.

Both teams will be at full strength for the encounter.

Hibernians Vs Valletta (Sunday at 4pm, National Stadium)