After finally breaking their duck for their historic first win and first goal – against the champions no less – the Wanderers now have to back it up.
Western Sydney Wanderers v Melbourne Heart
After finally breaking their duck for their historic first win and first goal – against the champions no less – the Wanderers now have to back it up.
Melbourne Heart have suffered a slight form dip in recent weeks but John Aloisi-s side still present a considerable obstacle for the Wanderers.
Both sides have struggled for goals but boast exceptionally organised defences; hopes for a goal-fest could be a bit unrealistic.
Perth Glory v Newcastle Jets
Glory will be fired up after losing to Sydney FC in controversial circumstances last week and their battle against an in-form Jets side looks like one of the picks of Round 5.
Perth were the better team against the Sky Blues until Steve Pantelidis-s sending off changed the game, and their power (read “physicality”) and mobility is proving a handful for all their Hyundai A-League rivals.
The Jets are enjoying a similarly promising start to the season, with their blend of pacy youngsters and experienced performers, not least marquee man Emile Heskey, with four goals to his name already.
Central Coast Mariners v Sydney FC
Two sides struggling to find their best form and a battle of contrasting styles. Graham Arnold-s Mariners are even more no-frills than usual – if that-s possible.
Central Coast ground out a win against Melbourne heart last week but a more attacking Sydney FC should bring the home side out of their shells a bit more.
And who knows which Sydney will turn up; Alessandro Del Piero continues to inspire his side to victories they perhaps don-t deserves but how much time and space will he get from a well-drilled Mariners side?
Brisbane Roar v Adelaide United
The Roar will want to come back with a bang following their upset loss to Western Sydney last week. Rado Vidosic-s side have been inconsistent so far; brilliant one week, lacklustre the next, and they won-t find the going any easier against Adelaide.
Despite the controversy surrounding their win over Wellington, John Kosmina certainly has the Reds firing on all cylinders; strong and the back and creative upfront, this will be a real test for both sides.
Melbourne Victory v Wellington Phoenix
A Melbourne Cup eve game for the Victory as they aim to get the city in an early party mood. Bottom of the ladder and struggling for confidence, a battling 1-0 would probably do it for Ange Postecoglou about now.
But they come up against a fiercely competitive Phoenix side desperate to make amends for the wrongs done against them in Round 4.
Two contrasting styles but hopefully one fired-up football match.
