The fight for top-four
When Melbourne City FC take on Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium on Sunday night both teams will be fighting for a top-four position on the league ladder.
With both teams suffering losses to the top-two teams in Round 7, both City and the Reds will be looking to respond immediately.
Depending on how Sydney FC track in the Sydney Derby the night prior, the winner of City’s clash with the Reds could finish the round as high as third position. With a top-four position on the line, we are set for a cracker in Adelaide.
Coopers calling
Coopers Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for City in recent seasons.
Head Coach Warren Joyce’s side is unbeaten in their past two league fixtures at the venue, registering one win and one draw from the side’s two meetings last season.
City’s strong run against its South Australian rivals last season extended to home soil, where they comprehensively defeated the Reds 5-0 at AAMI Park. Joyce and his men will be looking to continue their run of form against Adelaide and extend their unbeaten run into the new season.
The great wall of… Delbridge
City defender Harrison Delbridge has been one of the side’s most consistent performers this season.
Averaging 80 per cent tackle success rate and 84.3 per cent of aerial duels won this season, Delbridge has showcased his consistency at the back and his strength in one-on-one duels.
With 38 clearances, 10 interceptions and six blocks, Delbridge has become one of City’s most important figures at the back.
Super Dario
After suffering an interrupted start to the season due to injury, City attacker Dario Vidosic is back in the squad, as he continues to build in confidence with each performance.
Vidosic has a strong record against City’s rivals, registering three direct score involvements against them last season.
The City attacker netted two sublime strikes against the Reds, as well as registering one assist and creating four chances.
With a strong record against Adelaide, Vidosic will be looking to make his mark in the attacking third and again trouble the side from South Australia on the scoreboard.
Derby looming
With the annual Christmas Derby fast approaching, City will be looking to create winning-momentum as they head into their clash with Melbourne Victory.
City hold a 1-0 head-to-head lead over their city rivals this season and will no doubt be looking to make it two from two when they face Kevin Muscat’s side at AAMI Park.
It’s one of the biggest events of the 27-round fixture, and we can’t wait! Get your tickets here.
