It’s arguably the most fascinating match-up of the season so far, with a resurgent Western Sydney Wanderers side taking on current champions Melbourne Victory at Pirtek Stadium this Saturday evening.
The Wanderers registered their sixth straight win of the season against Brisbane Roar last round. It was Tony Popovic’s new signings that made the difference once again, with composed midfielder Andreu and live wire Mitch Nichols shining in their last encounter.
Melbourne Victory had a slip-up against Wellington Phoenix last weekend, losing 2-0 in a shock result in New Zealand. The combination of Roly Bonevacia and Roy Krishna proved to be the undoing of Kevin Muscat’s side. A win against the Wanderers will be crucial in solidifying the Victory’s title defence, particularly before they embark on a gruelling Asian Champions League campaign.
Key Battle – Besart Berisha v Alberto
There are so many fascinating battles to watch out for in this match, particularly in the midfield. However, Albanian striker Besart Berisha always poses the biggest threat for opposition defences and will be a great test for Western Sydney central defender Alberto. Berisha has scored six goals in seven matches and will be raring to go in front of what will be a packed house.
Alberto is one of the three Spanish signings Tony Popovic made in the off-season and has been a successful addition to the Wanderers defence. The 31-year-old has been a crucial part of the Wanderers new possession based style, displaying his European pedigree playing out from the back.
Team News
Tony Popovic can enjoy a full complement of players for this important clash, with enigmatic Italian marquee Federio Piovaccari promoting to the matchday squad.
Wanderers Expected XI: Redmayne (GK); Jamieson, Topor-Stanley, Alberto, Neville; Dimas, Andreu; Vidosic, Nichols, Castelen; Bridge.
Melbourne Victory have been dealt a blow with captain Carl Valeri unable to play after suffering from an unknown illness.
Melbourne Victory Expected XI: Vukovic (GK); Georgievski, Broxham, Delpierre, Geria, Mahazi, Bozanic, Finkler, Barbarouses, Berisha, Ben Khalfallah.
Head-to-head
Victory have the edge in this fixture, with five wins out of nine. There has been one draw between these two sides.
Last Meeting
Melbourne Victory had a comprehensive 3-0 win over a struggling Wanderers at home. Lethal striker Berisha secured himself a brace.
Prediction
If the Wanderers are going to win against the Victory anytime this season, then this is their best chance. On a high from their six straight wins, the home side might just take the three points.
Western Sydney Wanderers 2 Melbourne Victory 1
