An epic game is in the offing in Newcastle as the locals entertain champions Brisbane Roar with the outcome of this match set to play a pivotal role in determining the semi-final line-up.
Newcastle Jets v Brisbane Roar
Saturday 7 January
Adamstown Oval, Newcastle
Local kick-off: 3pm
An epic game is in the offing in Newcastle as the locals entertain champions Brisbane Roar with the outcome of this match set to play a pivotal role in determining the semi-final line-up.
Defeat for either side would be potentially disastrous with four teams hunting three finals berths, with just three points separating the quartet.
With a final-round trip to cellar-dwellers Perth, Newcastle will feel they can sneak into the semis should they defeat Brisbane. Roar meanwhile face a meeting with rivals Sydney FC in their last match meaning defeat at Adamstown would leave the league-s most successful club facing the unthinkable prospect of missing the finals for the first time.
The Jets turned in their best performance of the season last weekend in overturning Sydney on their own turf, and they will look to build upon that momentum.
Young guns Emily van Egmond, Nicole Bolger and Gema Simon were in outstanding form as the Jets belatedly hit their straps. Meanwhile unpredictable striker Lisa De Vanna was named player of the match and seems back in form despite not scoring since round three, coincidently against former side Brisbane.
Roar will take to the field refreshed after enjoying a three-week break over the holiday period. Not only are three crucial points in the offing, but so too the small matter of overturning a controversial 3-2 home defeat against the Jets in the last meeting.
