The second elimination final sees Perth travel to AAMI Park where they face a Melbourne City side whose recent form has them in danger of yet another disappointing campaign.
Harry Novillo missing through suspension
Last weekend’s half time mele between Adelaide and Melbourne City was not just disappointing for the A-League, but for the clubs themselves, as two players were suspended heading into the finals. One of those is Harry Novillo. Given City’s dynamic nature, building from the middle and attacking from all angles, the Frenchman is a key cog in creating their unpredictability up front. In his absence, City will lose their familiar wide-man, and the incredible understanding between him and Bruno Fornaroli – not to mention last time he sat games out, City suffered a frustrating slump in form. His suspension is untimely and could well be crucial, particularly if Aaron Mooy does not shake off his post-Socceroos jet lag.
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Impact of Chris Harold and Diego Castro
Part of Perth’s success in the second half of the season rests largely on the shoulders of Diego Castro. The 33-year-old Spaniard is the side’s driving creative force, as well as the missing link between Andy Keogh, Chris Harold and the rest of the midfield. While Harold himself has proved a surprise packet up front, playing off Keogh when necessary or taking on the forward responsibilities himself. However, last weekend both were noticeably absent, with Perth struggling to create chances and lacking any spark or urgency. Heading to Melbourne this Sunday, both are yet to be confirmed as fit. creating a real problem for Kenny Lowe. That said, should they play, they may well be the visitor’s match winners.
Who is mentally stronger?
While (potential) absences for both teams will play a considerable role in the result on Sunday, their form heading into the encounter will certainly weigh in also. The past fortnight has seen Melbourne City crash to an uninspiring 3-0 defeat to Perth in Western Australia, followed by a 2-0 loss to Adelaide United, with Perth following up on their win over City with an embarrassing 4-0 loss to Sydney. That in mind, both sides will need to have worked hard this week on their mental game, because should either team enter the match with previous form in the back of their mind, it could well prove the difference in what will be a tight match – putting an incredible onus on mental strength this Sunday.
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