Hyundai A-League fans are in for treat this weekend as high-flying Newcastle Jets host an improving Wellington Phoenix in a must-watch shootout at McDonald Jones Stadium.
The introduction of new signings Patricio Rodriguez, Matija Ljujic and Nathan Burns has given both sides an injection of fresh talent, all of which will come together on Saturday night.
We’ve taken a look at the two attacks that are set to excite.
RODRIGUEZ, NABBOUT & PETRATOS
If you needed any more inspiration to watch the Hyundai A-League’s entertainers, ‘Pato’ Rodriguez has provided it.
The exciting winger has added another layer to Newcastle’s multi-faceted front line, which continues to thrive even in the absence of Roy O’Donovan.
Andrew Nabbout has adapted well to leading the line when asked, but it’s his relationship with key playmaker Dimitri Petratos that has brought so many opponents undone.
Together, the pair have combined for 13 goals and 11 assists and they’ll be eager to put on another show come Saturday.
KRISHNA, BURNS & LJUJIC
Though not as established as their Newcastle counterparts, Phoenix’s burgeoning attack might prove to be every bit as exhilarating.
Serbian midfielder Ljujic could become the star attraction after showing his penchant for the spectacular with a sweet long-range equaliser in last weekend’s draw with Western Sydney.
Burns, who won the Johnny Warren Medal during his first stint at the club, will also add goals with his tidy feet and finishing, complementing the direct running and express pace of Roy Krishna.
And with that trio all scheming around aerial ace Andrija Kaluderovic, Newcastle will need to be at their sharpest to outscore a new-look Phoenix.
