January started with the second match against Zebbug. This was the Rovers' last call. They gave it their all but came up short. Ghajnsielem won 3-2 in dramatic fashion, thanks to a last-minute Lautier goal. The two goals conceded were giveaways, as has been just about every goal that has been scored against the Blacks this season. However, the team is playing well defensively. Even more encouragingly, the partnership of Ihebulu and Lautier is finally producing results. 

Although, the team was close to full strength, the Club further bolstered the squad by adding Reuben Mercieca of Victoria Hotspurs to the side. Joseph Attard II, in place of the suspended Ihebulu, scored two goals and made three others in the 5-0 victory over relegation haunted Victoria H. 5-0. Mercieca made his Club debut in this match. 

In completing their six game winning streak, the Tigers had beaten every single opponent in the first division. No sooner had they assumed an air of invincibility, however, the Tigers shot themselves in the foot by losing unexpectedly 0-1 to Xaghra. This was the worst way for Xewkija to prepare for their summit clash with Nadur. They were now in a must-win situation. Nadur, on their part, did not take kindly to the poor form of its attack which struggled to beat Qala and Hotspurs. So they ditched Okoro for the much sought-after Brazilian, Bizu. The Youngsters absorbed Xewkija's best shots, then delivered two decisive blows of their own and emerged 2-0 winners. 

And then there were two. This result left the Blacks and the Whites as the two remaining realistic title contenders. Ghajnsielem do not have to be told that favours are scarce in the first division and now that they have been done a major good turn by the likes of Xaghra U. and Zebbug R., they should exploit their luck wholeheartedly. They now have an obligation to perform with grace and deadliness against Nadur. Being boss early in the season carries no bragging rights in the stretch run.

As for the rest of the division, the Tigers and Rovers are in a comfortable mid-table position. Nothing has changed in the relegation zone.

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