HCM CITY (VNS)— Song Lam Nghe An (SLNA) and Ha Noi T&T have a great chance to widen the gap between them and the rest of the chasing V-League pack this weekend thanks to their rivals' tricky fixtures.

Ha Noi T&T, who lie second with 31 points, are expected to collect three points from their trip to Dong Nai – who are languishing in eighth place with 22 points – in the 18th round of the Eximbank V-League 2013 today at Bien Hoa Stadium.

Despite this being their debut V-League season, Dong Nai have surprised fans and the media by steering clear of the relegation battle.

In the meantime, leaders SLNA, who are one point ahead Ha Noi T&T, travel to take on former footballing giants Becamex Binh Duong at Go Dau Stadium tomorrow.

The match between the two former champions has added spice as SLNA will be playing their first game without top scorer Le Cong Vinh, who is on loan to a Japanese club.

Defending champions and third-placed SHB Da Nang will travel to HCM City to play sixth-placed Xuan Thanh Sai Gon in what promises to be a tough encounter for the visitors.

Fourth-placed Hoang Anh Gia Lai will also have a difficult time at home to fifth-ranked Thanh Hoa, who are renowned for playing with passion and determination.

Dong Tam Long An have enjoyed a revival under coach Ngo Quang Sang and will seek to continue the momentum for their trip to The Vissai Ninh Binh.

Bottom-of-the-table Kien Giang, desperately seeking a win to enhance their chances of V-League survival, will have a decent opportunity against an average Hai Phong team stuck in seventh place on 22 points. — VNS