There are a lot of pluses for Senglea Athletic and Tarxien Rainbows going into the new season. The major bonus is that they've not only managed to practically keep the same side but also got in some new blood.
They are being touted as the two favourites to make it to the top flight this season.
But one cannot really tell. The First Division is the most unpredictable championship of all and anything can happen.
No one could ever discard the likes of St Patrick and Mosta. But losing goalkeeper Alex Camilleri, to Sliema, and Gilbert Scerri, to Balzan, was a big blow to the Saints. Mosta, down from the Premier League, have got the set-up to bounce back, but it is always difficult to re-group after being relegated.
Senglea finished third last season. They lost Anthony Gera, to Balzan, but made up for his departure by signing on goalkeeper Sean Cini, on loan from Birkirkara, Andrea Bonnici and Clint Caruana, from Qormi, Alan Spiteri, from San Gwann, and Leonid McKay, from Valletta.
Together with the nucleus of last year, the side from Cottonera should be a hard nut to crack. Coach Victor Cassar must be delighted with the talent and experience he's got on his books.
Tarxien ran away with the Second Division championship last season and look destined to be a major force in the First Division. The likes of Aaron Guazzo prolific scorer Simon Shead, Anthony Bonello and Maczerob Okoro are all in the Rainbows' squad.
Marsa have lost too many players and although keeping their influential star Minabo Asechemie, they will surely look to consolidate themselves at this level.
Magpies surprise?
A side that could surprise a few people is Rabat. The Magpies finished fourth last season. However, they will surely miss forward William Borg who joined Pietà.
Naxxar and Lija lost vital players in the off-season as new boys San Gwann will seek to re-adjust to life in their new environs.
San Gwann may have lost Alan Spiteri to Senglea but they have signed Neville Arpa. The former St Andrews and Balzan striker always did well in Division One and should prove to be the kingpin for the new promoted side.
Lija lost star player Cleaven Frendo, while Naxxar still have some problems with some of their players. Nonetheless, with the promising Carmel Fenech, the Lions could be looking forward to a season of sound games.
Mqabba just managed to keep their place in Division One last season. If they don't improve then, they could be one of the teams to go down.
Although a close call, it looks as if Tarxien, Senglea, Rabat and, perhaps, Lija and St Patrick, could be tough to beat. San Gwann, Mosta and St Patrick fall just behind. It looks a tough season ahead for Marsa, Naxxar and Mqabba... but don't bet on it.