Melbourne Victory are down but are by no means out of the Premiership race.
The reigning Hyundai A-League Champions were dealt a big blow in Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Perth Glory.
That was a loss that has handed Kevin Muscat’s side a seven point deficit to overturn in order to retain their trophy come to the beginning of the Finals Series.
It makes Friday night’s contest with Wellington Phoenix all the more daunting for the second-placed Victory.
Victory have struggled when making the trip across the Tasman in recent times, losing three of their last five away trips to the Phoenix.
Moreover, they must contend with the unfamiliar surroundings of Eden Park, an arena where Melbourne have never played, and Phoenix have never lost.
The last two Hyundai A-League encounters between these two have finished enthralling draws, and with Wellington aiming to nail down their top six ambitions, it is sure to be another classic contest.
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Key Opta stats
- Melbourne Victory have won eight of their last 10 A-League games away from home (D1, L1), including their last two on the bounce across which they’ve scored eight goals.
- Wellington Phoenix have a save percentage of 72% when playing at home this A-League season, the best of any team in their respective home territories.
- Victory have scored 40 goals this campaign, 13 more than their Expected Goals figure for the season; no other team has scored more than five goals above their xG.
How to watch
Tune in to FOX SPORTS 505 from 5.35pm (AEDT) on Saturday. You can also stream it live by subscribing to Kayo Sports.
Tickets
Be at Eden Park in Auckland to see Phoenix and Victory do battle by CLICKING HERE.