Hibernians and Mosta are set for a decisive showdown on Friday as the fight to avoid the bottom two places enters its final stages.

With only four points separating third-placed Hibernians from bottom side Mosta, four teams remain involved in a tense battle for survival with just two matches left to play.

Victory for the Paolites would almost guarantee their place in next season’s top flight, while Mosta know that anything less than three points would leave their hopes hanging by a thread.

Agius Urges Hibernians to Play Without Fear

Hibernians coach Andrei Agius admitted that the pressure of a relegation battle is being felt inside the dressing room, but has encouraged his players to approach the game with freedom and confidence.

“The most important match is the one on Friday,” Agius said.

“Since I took over, we have worked on a number of issues. Apart from the matches against Tarxien and Naxxar, I believe we have managed to impose our style of play consistently.

“At the same time, we know we are struggling to score goals at the moment. We are doing everything possible to get the best out of every player in the squad.”

Agius also warned against underestimating Mosta.

“They have quality players who can hurt you. We need to stay focused and continue working through this difficult period.

“There is pressure because we are still in danger, but adding more pressure is pointless. My players know they need to enjoy themselves, play freely, perform well, and hopefully that performance will bring three very important points.”

Kristensen: We Must Be More Clinical

Club captain Bjorn Kristensen said the importance of the match was clear to everyone at the club.

“We’ve had a difficult season and games like these, when you are near the bottom, are mentally very demanding,” he said.

“The mental side often becomes more important than the physical side. We prepare properly, but mistakes can happen.

“We know Friday’s match is vital and we need the three points. Other results this weekend also matter, but a win would allow us to go into the final game against Żabbar in a strong position.”

Kristensen also pointed to the need for improvement in attack.

“Scoring goals is fundamental. Since Lucas Villela left, we have struggled in that area, but I am confident others in the attacking unit can step up, starting on Friday.”

Mosta Still Believing Despite Setback

Mosta head into the match knowing their margin for error is almost gone. Last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Sliema Wanderers, after surrendering a two-goal lead, means they no longer control their own destiny.

Technical director Mario Muscat said the team still believes survival is possible.

“We are depending on other results, but if we win on Friday, we can still go into the final match against Birkirkara with matters in our own hands,” Muscat said.

“Against Sliema in Gozo we played well and deserved more than a point. They are a very strong side, so it was still a positive result in some ways, but conceding an equaliser in the 89th minute after leading for so long was very frustrating.”

Muscat added that recent performances have given the squad renewed confidence.

“In the Closing Round there were many matches where we played well but lost narrowly, even against the bigger clubs. Then came the unexpected win over Ħamrun, which gave us belief not to give up.

“The hard work in training and the impact of our January signings have helped us keep fighting until the end.”

Portelli Focused on Three Points

One of Mosta’s standout performers in recent weeks, Nevin Portelli, said the team remains fully committed to taking maximum points from every game.

“We approach every match trying to win,” Portelli said.

“The pressure at the bottom is not easy, but we are taking it one game at a time. Recently we have been scoring goals, but defensively we still need to improve.

“Against Sliema we played one of the best teams in Malta and our performance was very good, even if we were disappointed with the result.

“Now all our focus is on Friday against Hibernians. We will give everything to take the three points and keep believing.”

Portelli also thanked Mosta for helping him rediscover his best form.

“The club has allowed me to express myself again and I am grateful to everyone here for the support.”