Melbourne City will be out to regain some momentum ahead of the Hyundai A-League Finals Series when they take on Central Coast Mariners on Friday night.
Warren Joyce’s men saw their top-four hopes officially extinguished on Easter Sunday after a thrilling 3-2 loss against Wellington Phoenix.
It continued an inconsistent period for City, who have registered two wins, two draws and two defeats in their last six matches.
So trying to get a read on how they will go – even against the last-placed Mariners – is no easy task, although City remain a tough nut to crack at home.
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The Mariners will head south with some renewed confidence after a spirited 3-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers on Saturday.
Skipper Matt Simon was superb, scoring a double as the Gosford club continued to show encouraging signs under interim boss Alen Stajcic.
It has been another tumultuous season for the Mariners, but a win in this one would certainly give them something to build on ahead of a vitally important off-season.
Interestingly, City is the only club yet to get a win over Central Coast this season, with the Mariners recording a win and a draw from the previous two encounters, both played in Gosford.
Key Opta stats
- Melbourne City have won five straight matches against Central Coast at AAMI Park. The Mariners last beat the Melbourne side there in March 2014.
- 55% of Hyundai A-League goals this season for Central Coast Mariners have come in the first-half of matches; the highest proportion of any side.
- City are currently enjoying an 11-game unbeaten streak at AAMI Park; winning six times and drawing on five occasions.
Ins and outs
Teams will be announced later this week.
How to watch
Tune in to FOX SPORTS 505 to catch this clash which kicks off at 7.50pm (AEST). You can also stream it live on the MyFootball Live App, or subscribe to Kayo Sports.
Tickets
Be there as City hosts the Mariners at AAMI Park by clicking here
Tipping
