Two home games remain
With the 2017-18 A-League Finals Series fast approaching, City host the Wanderers at AAMI Park in their second last home game of the season.
It’s set to be a Saturday night thriller with both teams desperate to claim the three points.
Don’t miss the chance to watch 90 minutes of non-stop entertainment against Western Sydney, get your tickets here.
A chance to reclaim third spot
Last weekend’s draw against the Reds has seen City slip to fourth position on the ladder, one point behind the third placed Melbourne Victory.
With four games remaining, there’s five points separating Victory in third from the Wanderers in sixth – with Brisbane Roar only two points behind in seventh.
Long story short, this weekend’s game against Western Sydney is crucial for both sides. There will be chances aplenty, as goals will need to be scored with both teams chasing the three points in what is set to be a mouth-watering clash in front of our home fans.
The Dutchman and the Dane
If you were to pick two players that could demonstrate the art of defending, both Michael Jakobsen and Bart Schenkeveld would be safe options.
The ever-reliable duo in the heart of City’s defence again demonstrated their defensive strengths against Adelaide United last weekend.
Perhaps one of their greatest strengths is their ability to compliment each other. Against the Reds, Jakobsen had 10 clearances – more than any other player on the pitch – as Schenkeveld won five duels and made two interceptions.
Out of the players listed in Warren Joyce’s starting side, the two central defenders were the most efficient with their distribution. Jakobsen making 68 passes at 92.6% pass accuracy, as Schenkeveld made 53 passes at 96.2%.
Can’t be left Wandering
City has played the Wanderers on two occasions this season, drawing the first contest 1-1 at AAMI Park before going down 2-1 against the side from Sydney on New Year’s Day at ANZ Stadium.
With one game remaining in the regular season between the two teams, Joyce’s men have an opportunity to square the ledger against their Western Sydney rivals by claiming the all important three points.
The pear becoming pricklier
He may have missed a penalty last weekend, but Bruno Fornaroli had several moments of brilliance across the 90 minutes.
Since his return from injury, City’s attacking third has looked more and more dangerous with each game. The Uruguayan’s understanding with Daniel Arzani is strengthening, which is an intimidating prospect for any defence.
Both Arzani and Fornaroli have an innate ability to bring their teammates into the contest, which has seen the likes of Stefan Mauk reap in the rewards. With both players attracting plenty of attention from defenders, there is plenty of space left for their teammates to exploit – something that will be key against the Wanderers.
