A-League Round 21

Adelaide United V Central Coast Mariners

Thursday, 6:30pm (AEST)

#ADLvCCM

The big talking point out of this game is the return of Fabio Ferriera back to Coopers Stadium against his old club. Pablo Sanchez has scored both of Adelaide’s goals in their win over Central Coast Mariners in November but has scored just three times since in 13 games. With only one win from their past five, Adelaide need the three points to get their season back on track as the finals fast approach.

Head-to-Head: Melbourne

Value Bet: To win by 2+

Western Sydney Wanderers v Melbourne Victory

Friday, 6:40pm (AEST)

#WSWvMVC

The Wanderers notched up their second win of the season mid-week against a spirited Melbourne City, but have the task ahead to back up against premiership favourites in the Victory. The comfort of another home fixture will please coach Tony Popovic, but their defensive frailties could well see the Victory pour on the goals with the likes of Berisha, Barbarouses and Ben Khalfallah up front.

Head-to-Head: Melbourne

Value Bet: To win by 2+

Melbourne City v Newcastle Jets

Saturday, 6:30pm (AEST)

#MCYvNEW

Melbourne City will have a quick turn around this week but will remain confident as they return back to AAMI Park and remain unbeaten in all six home A-League matches (W4 D2) there. The Jets are without a win from their past nine games with their first and only win this season coming back on the 19th December against Adelaide United.

Head-to-Head: Melbourne City

Value Bet: Correct Score Melbourne City 2-1

Perth Glory v Wellington Phoenix

Saturday, 8:30pm (AEST)

#PERvWEL

The Glory haven’t lost to the Nix in their past five A-League encounters (W3 D2) but are experiencing a lean run of wins of late despite still maintaining top spot on the ladder. Their last win came eight games ago in January against Melbourne Victory but the ‘Distance Derby’ may just be the tonic for them to return back to the winners circle. If someone had told you before the season started the two teams would be battling it out for the premiership trophy, they’d have said you were ‘talking through your hat’.

Head-to-Head: Draw

Value Bet: ‘HT/FT Double’ Draw/Draw

Sydney FC v Brisbane Roar

Sunday, 4:00pm (AEST)

#SYDvBRI

This promises to be the match of the round IMO. The two form teams of late with both sides undefeated in their past five outings. The last meeting between the sides ended in the dour scoreless draw, but I’m not predicting that happen this time around with the likes of leading goal scorer Marc Janko together with Henrique and Brandon Borrello, should guarantee an entertaining match this time around. Confidence is high in both camps on the road, but Brisbane’s 17 points away and 8 at home should see them gain maximum points.

Head-to-Head: Brisbane 

Value Bet: To Score A Goal Henrique

I’ll be on @RadioTABAus every Friday and Monday morning around 7:45am AEST over the course of the entire A-league season with my previews and reviews of every game. @cleansheetoz