There is likely to be a party atmosphere at HBF Park as Perth Glory host Wellington Phoenix in the very last match of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 regular season.
With the Premiers Plate already safely tucked away in the trophy cabinet, Glory will be out to put on a show for their home fans before a do-or-die semi-final in two weeks’ time.
Tony Popovic’s men may have lost their most recent clash – a 1-0 defeat against Sydney FC – but it should not dent their confidence too much ahead of this tie.
Glory have lost only two of their last 10 clashes against Wellington, and enjoyed a 3-0 win over the New Zealanders at HBF Park back in February.
WATCH FOR FREE: How to watch the Hyundai A-League LIVE and FREE
BATTLE FOR FOURTH: Will it be Adelaide or Wellington?
GLORY DAYS: Castro re-signs with Perth for two more years
Depending on how Adelaide United go against Brisbane Roar on ANZAC Day, the Phoenix will know heading into this clash if their top-four hopes remain alive.
If the Reds fail to take maximum points at Suncorp Stadium, Phoenix could still finish in the top four – and nab a home Elimination Final – by beating the Glory.
If that is to be the case, striker Roy Krishna is likely to be the ‘Nix key man.
Krishna – who holds a two-goal buffer to Sydney FC’s Adam Le Fondre in the race for the Golden Boot – has been simply sensational for Mark Rudan’s men in recent months.
Thirteen of Krishna’s 18 goals this season have come in 2019, the most of any player this calendar year.
Key Opta stats
- Perth Glory have won each of their last four Hyundai A-League matches against Wellington Phoenix at HBF Park; three of those victories were recorded with a clean sheet.
- After a five-match unbeaten run on the road (W2 D3), the Phoenix have since failed to win in four of their last five such fixtures (D1 L3).
- Glory have bagged more goals (14) in the final 15 minutes of Hyundai A-League matches this term than any other club, while Wellington have scored eight times in the opening 15 minutes: also the most of any side.
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 7.00pm (AEST). You can also stream it live on the MyFootball Live App, or subscribe to Kayo Sports.
Tickets
Get your seat at HBF Park in the final game of the regualr season by clicking here
Tipping
