An intriguing contest awaits in Newcastle where the erratic Jets will hope to return to form at the expense of unbeaten leaders Canberra United.
Newcastle Jets v Canberra United
Sunday 18 December 2011
Adamstown Oval, Newcastle
Local kick-off: 3pm
An intriguing contest awaits in Newcastle where the erratic Jets will hope to return to form at the expense of unbeaten leaders Canberra United. Last weekend Canberra held Sydney FC to a scoreless draw to leave the destiny of the premiership in their own hands.
This will mark the first of three remaining matches in which Canberra, should they claim victory in each, can claim its maiden silverware and with it a home final.
The last time the pair met Canberra ran out comfortable 3-1 victors. In truth, the form book would point to a similar outcome. United have won five and drawn two of their seven matches thus far, with the draws coming in the last fortnight against competition heavyweights Brisbane Roar and Sydney FC.
United will be boosted by the return of skipper Ellie Brush from suspension and coach Jitka Klimkova should once again have a full squad to choose from.
Newcastle had the bye last weekend which captain Ariane Hingst said was a positive and left the players refreshed and eager. The bye was well timed as the Jets prepare for the first of two crucial matches in five days, with a postponed home fixture against Perth Glory looming next Wednesday.
The week off has also allowed young midfield tyro Emily van Egmond to recover from a nagging ankle injury which kept her out of the Melbourne Victory match a fortnight ago.
