Following Sydney’s clash with Perth, Saturday night heats up in Melbourne as local rivals City and Victory go toe-to-toe at AAMI Park.
City’s loss to Newcastle
Last weekend Melbourne City suffered a huge blow to their Premiership hopes as they fell to Newcastle 2-1. However, it wasn’t the result that was the most concerning for John van ‘t Schip’s men, more so the fashion in which they lost. City have built their entire season off an insatiable appetite for goals, and yet against a Jets side who have conceded 29 this season were unable to penetrate Mark Birighitti’s goal on multiple occasions. Up against their cross-town rival Melbourne Victory, City cannot afford to botch chances or they will suffer their fourth derby defeat in five games.
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Alex Wilkinson
Much was made about Melbourne City’s incredible squad depth in the pre-season, however as the campaign neared injuries took their toll as recruit after recruit was ruled out of action. As the season started it became very apparent it was City’s defence that was hit the hardest, with the absence of Socceroos Ivan Franjic and Michael Zullo leaving gaping holes in the club’s plans. With the January transfer window came yet another Australian representative to the club, as Alex Wilkinson joined the City group franchise. With World Cup experience alongside seasons in the A-League and Asia, on paper Wilkinson will certainly add experience and depth to their backline, and after being named in Melbourne’s side for the derby he may face a trial by fire to see if he really is the answer to City’s defensive woes.
Victory’s bolstered attack
Barely a week goes by without mention of Melbourne Victory’s forward line, and given the impressive quality of their attacking options it is certainly not hard to see why. However, in their draw against the Wanderers last weekend the side certainly were not the same dominant force they have got the potential to be – partly down to the absence of Archie Thompson and suspension of Fahid Ben Khalfallah. With that in mind, Victory fans headed to AAMI Park will certainly be delighted by the return of both men to the squad, alongside midfielder Rashid Mahazi. Although nothing is certain in a derby, particularly when both sides are locked on equal points, the trio’s addition is certainly a welcome one up against their often lethal neighbours.
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