Outside90’s Chris Matthews-Darby takes a look at what could be the defining factors for Western Sydney in this weekend’s A-League grand final.
Be stronger in defence
As a player Tony Popovic was as intimidating and strong in defence as they come. It also something he has brought to his side, but it is something that went missing last Sunday and almost cost them a spot in the final. After 23 minutes they conceded from two set pieces – one leading to a penalty, and a deflected Jamie Maclaren goal. To come from 3-0 down to win 5-4 is always impressive from a fan and forward’s perspective, but take away the character they showed they also conceded four goals in a match. For the second time this season and for just the fourth time in their history they conceded four or more goals in a game.
Adelaide United beat Melbourne City 4-1 last week and being at home will give them all the confidence in the world to score that many again on Sunday.
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Press high on the Reds
Adelaide like to start their attacks from Eugene Galekovic, from there they build to defenders, midfielders, and forwards. To eliminate that and get Adelaide off their game Western Sydney’s front three should press high on the defence, forcing them to go long on or into errors. Mark Bridge, Brendon Santalab, Dario Vidosic, and Romeo Castelen have all proved they are capable of finishing their chances when they are handed to them and they are not going to get many in a grand final. Not only will high pressing cause errors at the back, it will also cause a disruption going forward.
If the likes of Isaias and Marcelo Carrusca cannot get the ball then their attack is going to struggle getting service. Gui Amor’s side have adjusted when they look unbalanced and unorganised this season so they can switch to counter-attacking football, but in a grand final is switching from the style that has gotten them there a wise move?
Start Castelen over Vidosic
This one may seem the most obvious given the inspirational hat-trick last week, but with Tony Popovic you can never know what he is thinking. However, he should, and most likely will, start Castelen over Dario Vidosic. The flying Dutchman has pace and last week showed his proficiency in front of goal that has been missing for most of his tenure at the club.
Starting him will give the Reds issues from the get go and may force Craig Goodwin or Tarek Elrich to stay at the back instead of venturing forward and giving him the space he likes to work with. They will also want to watch his runs inside that gives space for Scott Neville to roam forward.
Vidosic may not be blessed with a lot of pace but his skill alone will be enough to contribute if he is needed to make an impact late in the game.
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