Melbourne City FC head to New South Wales where they will take on the Western Sydney Wanderers on Thursday 20 February. Ahead of the clash, we take a look at the five things we’re looking forward to.
A point away from the Premiers Plate
Following a stellar season that has seen us remain undefeated after 12 rounds, City now sit a point away from securing the Club’s second Premiers Plate.
Eager to secure the premiership, a win or draw on Thursday night will be enough to see the side from Melbourne jump on the flight home with the silverware on board.
It’s all in our hands and it’s time to continue the incredible form that has seen the team secure nine consecutive wins.
Chasing clean sheets
City’s 0-4 win over Melbourne Victory in Round 12 saw the team secure their sixth consecutive clean sheet.
Having gone a remarkable 629 minutes without conceding, City are honing in on their own record-breaking run from their inaugural invincible season.
Conceding just three goals this season, led by captain Steph Catley in defence, City’s back five have flourished under Vidosic’s new game plan. Rebekah Stott and Lauren Barnes have continued to produce week-in week-out, while the acquisitions of Emma Checker and Ellie Carpenter have only benefited the side. With experienced shot-stopper Lydia Williams between the sticks, City will look to continue moving from strength to strength.
Bangers only
Since making the move from her hometown club, Newcastle Jets, Emily van Egmond has been nothing short of exceptional in City blue.
The attacking midfielder has been in incredible touch, showcasing her exquisite skill set and ability to find the back of the net in impressive fashion.
With a knack for scoring the spectacular, van Egmond’s form will be a key as City look to secure silverware.
First time up
Despite this week’s clash being City’s second last of the regular season, it will be the first time they face the Wanderers.
Facing one of the league’s most impressive teams this season, City can prepare for a tough battle as they go head-to-head with the team from Western Sydney on their home turf.
It’s all to play for with City looking to secure the Premiers Plate and the Wanderers eager to secure a spot as high as possible. If anything is certain, we’re set for an enthralling night of ‘Hersday night’ football.
Hitting our straps in attack
Accompanied by the form of Emily van Egmond, our attack has continued to flourish as the season has progressed.
Following a relatively slow start, the past two months of football has seen City hit their straps in attack at the right time of the season.
Scottish international Claire Emslie is full of confidence following a dominant display against Melbourne Victory which saw her net two goals while Kyah Simon is quickly returning to career-best form, looking ever-threatening anytime she’s near the ball. With Milicia Mijatovic as lethal as ever and youngster Ally Watt as eager as ever, City have a number of attacking options that they will look towards as the crucial part of the season progresses.
