The Newcastle Jets travel to Pirtek Stadium to take on the top-of-the-table Western Sydney Wanderers on Christmas Eve.
Western Sydney’s seven match-winning streak finally came to an end against a resilient Perth Glory side, who held the league leaders to a draw at Nib Stadium. However, the Wanderers are still on an eight match unbeaten run and would think of no better early Christmas present then extending this run to nine. The return of some key players that were rested for the trip to Perth will keep confidence levels high for Tony Popovic’s men ahead of the clash with the Jets.
Meanwhile, the Newcastle Jets’ campaign has stalled somewhat, sitting in sixth position on the A-League table. A less than captivating 0-0 draw with the equally struggling Adelaide United marked the seventh winless round last weekend. A win against the league leaders could be the result needed to galvanise the side.
Key Battle – Mateo Poljak vs Dimas Delgado
Mateo Poljak will return to his former home ground for the first time in Newcastle Jets colours, and will also have the task of breaking down an on-fire Wanderers midfield. His return is an interesting underlying narrative for this clash and he will be battling for influence in the centre of the park with Western Sydney’s new Spanish signing Dimas Delgado.
The 32-year-old missed out on the Wanderers match against Perth Glory last weekend, but is likely to return for the upcoming Christmas Eve fixture. However, he will be without fellow holding midfielder Andreu, who is suspended. It will be interesting to see whether his dominance in the midfield will be as pronounced partnered alongside Jacob Pepper.
Team News
The Western Sydney Wanderers welcome back Dimas to the squad, alongside Mark Bridge who was rested for last round. Golgol Mebrahtu has also been promoted to the squad, but will most likely have a place on the bench.
Newcastle Jets will welcome back Daniel Mullen, who will slot back into central defence. The creative Leonardo will also make a return to the starting line-up, while a mix-up with suspensions has been resolved to allow Ben Kantarovski the chance to start.
Head-to-head
The Wanderers have the edge in this fixture, with four wins over the Jets three. There have been three draws between the two clubs.
[interaction id=”567b6934e6e311024a45df86″]
Last Meeting
The Wanderers secured a 2-1 win over the Jets at Hunter Stadium, which was decided by a strike from midfielder Mitch Nichols in the 84th minute.
Prediction
Eight runs unbeaten is too much of a streak for the Jets to break, and Wanderers should prevail in this fixture.
Western Sydney Wanderers 2 Newcastle Jets 0
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
