Adelaide United will be looking to keep their revival going against Central Coast Mariners on Saturday evening and ahead of the clash we look at the major talking points.
Can the Mariners revival continue?
After pulling off a much needed win over Wellington Phoenix a fortnight ago, Central Coast look to be finally clicking both in defence and attack for the first time this season. Despite making a name for themselves as an attacking, entertaining and yet ultimately clumsy side their 3-1 win over the Nix, and stunning first 45 against Melbourne Victory last round, has seen the Mariners enjoy a new defensive lease on life. That said, coming up against an equally confident and successfully defensive side, can the Central Coasts’ revival continue? Or will they fall apart against a swift Adelaide?
Misfiring forwards
Over the past few rounds Adelaide United seem to have rediscovered their mojo, with a solid defence and confident transition becoming the foundation of their success. However, despite moving into the top six for the first time this season the side are certainly not without room for improvement – particularly up front. While the Guillermo Amor’s international contingent, alongside Craig Goodwin, have been providing enough goals to see the Reds surge up the table, front men Bruce Djite and Eli Babalj have failed to get off the mark. In fact between the side’s five forwards only five goals have been scored in fourteen matches. With the Mariners frustrating opposition defensively in recent weeks, United’s front men will need to step up this Saturday.
Central Coast’s abysmal away form
With just two wins to their name this season, it’s no surprise Walmsley’s men have gone the entire campaign without a win on the road. But, the Mariner’s issues travelling run deeper than just the past 14 rounds, with side failing to pick up a win in their last 21 matches outside of the Central Coast. Coming close last weekend the Mariners looked on track to break the drought at half time, only to suffer a frustrating comeback from the reigning Champions. Should the side tap into that first 45 form and maintain it for the full 90, they could well pick up a maiden away win this season.
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