The Wanderers and the Glory are both in a good run of form.
Wanderers’ seventh heaven
After Western Sydney’s deserved win over Melbourne Victory last weekend, Fox Sports panelist Mark Bosnich made the bold prediction the side would go on to improve its seven consecutive wins to upwards of 15. And while the prediction is certainly a brave one, the Wanderers have looked the goods since their classy 3-0 win over Melbourne City. With talent and cohesion across the pitch, Tony Popovic’s men have gone from starting the campaign where they left off last season to leading the league, and despite a tough 90 minutes in Perth this Saturday it is hard to see the streak ending this weekend.
Can Perth back up?
Following a loss in round eight’s bottom of the table clash against Adelaide, Kenny Lowe’s Perth side seem to have finally clicked into gear, nabbing consecutive wis against the Central Coast and Melbourne Victory. However, having played against the reigning champions midweek and with key members of the team remaining sidelined with injury, the squad’s already questionable depth will be tested – and against a Wanderers side in incredible form.
The effect of Mark Bridge’s injury
With Mark Bridge pulling up lame, the Wanderers head to Western Australia down one of their founding players and go-to forwards. While the side has no shortage of attacking midfielders and outright forwards, the effect of Bridge’s loss will be felt in the tactical changes it forces Popovic into – particularly if Federico Piovaccari fails to take to the field. With Bridge’s hard work off the ball complimenting the slick skills and creativity of Mitch Nichols, Romeo Castelen and Dario Vidosic, Popovic could be forced to move out of his comfort zone and field a less experienced and well rounded front line – which, given the reliability of his tried and true formula over the past month, could play a crucial role in deciding Saturday night’s result.
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
