We head to Eden Park for the very first time when we take on Wellington Phoenix on Saturday evening. Ahead of the clash, we take a look at the five things we’re looking forward to.
Time to build some momentum
Last week we scored a massive win, taking down our cross-town rival Melbourne Victory 2-1 in the last derby of the regular season.
It was our first derby win of the season after drawing the season opener and going down in the Christmas Derby.
This weekend’s trip to Wellington is a massive chance to pick-up another win as we approach the back end of the season with just eight games to play after following our Round 19 clash with ‘Nix.
Top four battle
As we have for most of the season, we still sit in second place but have Perth just a point behind and also with a game in hand.
Wellington have also enjoyed quite a good season to date and sit fourth on the table.
They sit six points behind us but also have a game in hand. This will be a big test and could prove to be a pivotal match in terms of who finishes where on the table when the 2019/20 finals series roll around.
Front third form
With the addition of Markel Susaeta in January, City’s front third is now looking very potent with both Jamie Maclaren and Craig Noone also in good form.
The three looked dangerous last weekends in the derby and asked plenty of questions of the Victory defence.
Maclaren got on the scoresheet with his 14th goal of the season, now sitting one goal behind golden boot leader Adam Le Fondre.
With the front trio in fine form, City stars Adrian Luna and Florin Berenguer have also flourished over the past couple of fixtures.
Last game before the bye
City will have its second last bye of the season following this weekend’s match.
It will come at a perfect time following the long trip to Auckland and will give the players a good chance to refresh and prepare for the last eight games of the season.
Although there’s no A-League game next round, you’ll still be able to get your City fix next Thursday night when the W-League team take on Western Sydney.
New Zealand trip
This week’s clash against the Phoenix will be City’s only trip across the ditch for the season.
It will also be City’s first trip to Auckland’s Eden Park as Wellington play their second and final game of the season at the stadium.
Our last three trips to New Zealand to take on the ‘Nix have all ended in defeat so Erick Mombaerts’ will be out to turn the tide this Saturday.
City take on Wellington Phoenix at Eden Park on Saturday 15 February, kick off 5:00pm, before sitting out Round 20 with the bye and returning to AAMI Park for a blockbuster double header on Sunday 1 March, W-League kick off 4:00pm and A-League kick off 6:30pm. Get your tickets here!
