Melbourne City FC will be looking to return to the winner’s list when they host Wellington Phoenix on Friday night. Ahead of the fixture, we take a look at the five things to look forward to.
Friday night lights
Melbourne City return to Friday night football when they host Wellington Phoenix at AAMI Park in Round 4.
Following last week’s disappointment, the boys have put in the hard yards on the training track ahead of this week’s fixture.
There’s no better venue and there’s no better time slot, so don’t miss the chance to get down and support the team! Get your tickets here.
Bounce back ability
Head Coach Warren Joyce and his men will be disappointed with their performance against Sydney FC in the Club’s home opener last Friday night, but the beauty of the early stages of a 27-round-season is the ability to bounce back the following week and gain some much-needed momentum.
With 23 rounds to play in the 2018/19 Hyundai A-League campaign, City will be looking to return to the winner’s list ahead of the international break and carry that form into the remainder of the season.
Following the disappointment of last week, there’s no doubt that the home side will be looking to make a statement when they return to AAMI Park to face the ‘Nix.
Better for the run
Despite City’s 3-0 loss to the reigning premiers last week, captain Scott Jamieson and attacker Dario Vidosic were both selected in Joyce’s starting XI for the first time this season.
With both players suffering set-backs on the eve of the new campaign, City fans would have been delighted to see the experienced duo return to the starting line-up.
Jamo showed glimpses of his run and carry as well as his crossing ability against the Sky Blues, while Dario went inches away from finding the back of the net.
With valuable minutes under their belts, both players will be looking to have an impact against Wellington.
The wood over the Nix
Out of City’s past seven league fixtures against Wellington, the Melbourne side has only lost one game.
With six wins over the Phoenix in recent times, City will be looking to strengthen their stronghold over the side from New Zealand.
Mark Rudan’s side will be equally as determined to return to winning ways, but they would be well aware that the task won’t be easy against a City side playing in front of their home fans.
Will Bruno break his goal drought?
It’s only been three rounds, but will this week be the week that Bruno Fornaroli registers his first league goal of the season?
Following an impressive pre-season, which included a couple of spectacular strikes in the FFA Cup, the Uruguayan attacker has struggled to make the most of his opportunities in front of goal.
So far this season, the 31-year-old has had six shots at goal with one of those attempts being on target.
The striker is getting himself into the right positions and doing the hard work off the ball, meaning it’s just a matter of time before the flood gates open.
