Ahead of Sunday’s A-League grand final, we select the best combined side between Adelaide United and Western Sydney Wanderers.
Did we get it right? Who did we miss?
Eugene Galekovic – Goalkeeper – Adelaide United
The Reds goalkeeper earns a spot in the combined XI following a strong season between the posts for his side. The veteran shot-stopper has continued his fine from right through the season after returning from injury shortly into the campaign. He produced a stellar performance last weekend as Adelaide booked their spot in the grand final.
Michael Marrone – Right-back – Adelaide United
Marrone has enjoyed a consistent season at the back for the Reds, establishing himself as a mainstay in the back four. His ability to get forward has caused problems for many opposition defenders throughout the season and this should be no different come Sunday. The 29-year-old has a knack for limiting the impact of wingers and this could be a huge factor if the Reds are to win their maiden A-League crown.
Dylan McGowan – Centre-back – Adelaide United
What a season this man has enjoyed, going from strength to strength in every game he has played – which has been each and every A-League match. McGowan has been consistent all season long and forms a big part of the reason why Adelaide are playing off for the title this Sunday. The partnership he has formed with Iacopo La Rocca has been a major plus ever since the Reds stormed to the top of the table.
Alberto Aguilar – Centre-back – Western Sydney Wanderers
The Spaniard joins McGowan in the combined side after a solid first season for the Wanderers. The 31-year-old has very much become a key figure in the back four for the Wanderers with skipper Nikolai Topor-Stanley struggling for form at various times throughout the season. His experience and composure at the back could be key to the Wanderers lifting the trophy.
Scott Jamieson – Left-back – Western Sydney Wanderers
Following his move from Perth Glory at the start of the season, Jamieson has enjoyed arguably a career best season in his first campaign at Western Sydney. The 27-year-old had his form recognised with a place in the PFA’s Team of the Year as selected by his peers. His ability to get stuck in defensively has been a highlight of his form.
Bruce Kamau – Right-wing – Adelaide United
Despite not featuring consistently throughout the season, Kamau is producing his best football at the right time of the year when the team needs it most. The youngster produced a sensational performance against Melbourne City last weekend and will be hoping to carry this form into the grand final and cause problems for the Wanderers back four.
Mitch Nichols – Central-midfield – Western Sydney Wanderers
His premiership-winning experience could hold the key this week as the Wanderers look to secure the title away from home on Sunday. Nichols has been the creative genius for Western Sydney this season and his ability to find a pass in the final third may make or break the Wanderers’ chances against the Reds.
Stefan Mauk – Central-midfield – Adelaide United
Arguably the most improved player in the back half of the season throughout the entire competition. His move from Melbourne City drew plenty of media attention and the attention has certainly not worn off as Mauk has produced a number of impressive performances in the middle of the park for his hometown club.
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Romeo Castelen – Left-wing – Western Sydney Wanderers
High-profile Castelen was always going to draw criticism if he did not perform on a consistent basis and the Dutch international silenced the doubters last weekend with a hat-trick to lead his side into the grand final. His experience European experience will be a key yet again if the Wanderers are going to become champions.
Mark Bridge – Striker – Western Sydney Wanderers
While he may not be on the scoresheet every week, Bridge is an integral part to the Wanderers side whether it be out wide, on the wings or through the middle. Thirty-year-old Bridge has the ability to hold up the ball for his side and make a nuisance of himself with his physical presence.
Bruce Djite – Striker – Adelaide United
Ever since he broke his goal scoring drought earlier in the season, Djite has hit a major purple patch at the pointy end. Now Adelaide’s all-time leading scorer continues to find the back of the net in big games and added a brace last weekend to continue his impressive form, giving Adelaide United a shot at their maiden title.
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