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BOV PREMIER LEAGUE ENTERS SECOND PHASE

Published: 21-02-2013 13:20
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The month of February signals the changeover from the first to the second phase of the BOV Premier League. The competition made up of 12 teams will see the points gained by all contestants halved, with the top six vying for the title of champions and the bottom fighting it out to avoid the last two places and consequently demotion to the 1stDivision.    Champions Valletta followed by Hibernians, now both starting on 23 points, Birkirkara, 22, Tarxien and Sliema, 19 each, and Mosta on 17 points after the teams’ first phase spoils were halved will go through their 30-match second phase travails in the hope that they will have something to show for their efforts. The City team kept their noses in front as they collected 46 points, with Hibernians breathing down their necks thanks to their 45-point tally. Birkirkara’s 44 points, Tarxien, 38 and Sliema 37, were followed by Mosta who picked 34 points.    The points’ gap at the end of the opening two rounds, condensed as it is now, will render the race for the league title a tighter affair and thus will generate more interest and excitement. This despite scepticism surrounding the system which, among other factors, punishes those teams who complete the opening phase with an even number of points. By contrast those finishing with an odd tally will stand to gain marginally. The same applies to the bottom six group which sees Qormi starting on 15 points, Balzan 14, Floriana 12, followed by Hamrun (8), Melita (7) and Rabat (6). Still it is everything to play for as the competition enters a decisive stage. Interest is bound to increase and consequently attendance by supporters and neutral fans. Keen contests played in the best of sporting spirit are anticipated as all the performers will be flexing their muscles, while the supporters’ hearts will constantly beat with an air of expectancy and anticipation of success.