The 12 teams making up the BOV Premier Division have just completed the first of two round robin matches of the scheduled two rounds which bring the first phase of the championship to an end.
Standings at this point in the top brass competition of Maltese football reflect more or less most of the teams’ credentials and pre-season expectations, never mind a few exceptions. The four sides heading the table have had their aspirations fulfilled so far, both in the quality of their performances as well as their points’ tally. Valletta, though going through a slight blip in their last three matches, remain the only unbeaten outfit with a total of 25 points and the healthiest goal difference. They still look the strongest contenders for the title, despite the challenges that may ensue. Birkirkara follow on their heels two points adrift, having won seven matches, as many as the leaders, and suffered two defeats. The Stripes have come good in recent matches and definitely possess quality players to pose a threat to the City team. Hibernians are next on 22 points. The Paolites also won seven matches but missed out on all spoils in three outings. If they can summon more consistency they would surely have something tangible to show for their efforts. Sliema Wanderers, lying fourth, are the only team other than Valletta who have not been beaten by the top four sides, even if they suffered their three defeats at the hands of lowered-ranked opposition. With a new formation but for some core players they look forward to improving their position. Mosta, strengthened by the engagement of some established units, have probably surpassed the limit they expected and their 19 points look a safe bet in their bid to end up in the championship pool come February. The gritty Tarxien Rainbows should also be pleased with their sixth position and the 17 points gained. They, too, could finish in the top six if this resilience and fighting spirit are kept up. Balzan, with 15 points to their credit, are not far behind after their satisfactory phase. They are quite a hard nut to crack and have jolted a couple of higher teams in the table. Not so Hamrun Spartans (13 points) who have had hiccups throughout their campaign so far. They still have to find a smooth rhythm and also hope to bank on higher levels of commitment. Qormi will also have been happier with a healthier ninth place after having collected 11 points. A steadier run-in as the season unfolds should help them improve their rankings. Floriana’s tenth position on ten points distorts the overall picture of what the pundits expected in August and is definitely not in consonance with their pre-season billings and the Greens’ overall status in Maltese football. They hope to redeeem themselves in the next round. Valletta’s suburban troups are followed by the promoted teams, Melita and Rabat Ajax with five and three points respectively, the latter being the only side without a win. Both newcomers to the Premier League certainly look towards better tidings in the next round. All in all, it has been quite an interesting first round, with a certain modicum of balance prevailing, especially on a match per match basis. If this trend is maintained those attending the top division matches should be in for a grandstand finish when the round robin phase comes to an end.