Birkirkara look worth backing to break Hearts

Mauro Zarate of West Ham is challenged by Paul French of BirkirkaraCredit: Getty Images

Celtic's extraordinary loss in Gibraltar on Tuesday night should ensure there’s no hint of complacency in the Hearts camp as they prepare for their Europa League second qualifying round tie in Malta.

Forty-eight hours after the Scottish champs’ embarrassing 1-0 loss at Lincoln Red Imps in the Champions League, Hearts tackle Birkirkara, the third-placed team from last season’s Maltese Premier League.

Birkirkara beat West Ham on home soil in this competition 12 months ago and have suffered only two home losses since that famous night.

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Steve DaviesRacing Post Sport

Published on 13 July 2016inFootball tips

Last updated 19:57, 13 July 2016

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