Melbourne City FC will be looking to return to the winner’s list when they face the Western Sydney Wanderers in a blockbuster double-header at ANZ Stadium on New Year’s Day.
How to watch
The match kicks-off at 5:20pm (AEDT) and will be broadcast live on FOX SPORTS 501 and SBS VICELAND.
You can also keep up with all the action as it happens by following our official Twitter account @MelbCityWFC.
Set the scene for me…
Following an impressive win over Canberra United, City were dealt a blow going down 2-0 to the Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium in Round 8.
Patrick Kisnorbo’s side created several first-half chances, but failed to capitalise on their dominance in front of goal.
City’s wasted opportunities came back to haunt them in the second period, when the Roar netted two quick fire goals as both Allira Toby and Katrina Gorry found the back of the net.
Yukari Kinga was arguably the most influential player afield in the first 45 minutes, pulling the strings in the midfield and creating several attacking opportunities for her teammates.
Three of those chances fell to Kyah Simon, the Matildas international failed to capitalise on her opportunities but should be commended for her exceptional positioning throughout the contest.
Lauren Barnes was a stand out performer for City, the centre-back made several vital interceptions to deny the Roar in the first period. Similarly, Aivi Luik played an important role anchoring the midfield.
Jess Fishlock worked tirelessly in City’s attacking third in an attempt to equalise in the second period, but it wasn’t meant to be for City who remains in fifth position, two points behind the top four.
City’s opponents, the Western Sydney Wanderers, registered their second win of the season in Round 8 with a 2-1 win over Adelaide United at Marden Sports Complex.
Although the Wanderers have had a mixed bag of results this season, they will be beaming with confidence as they head into the New Year’s Day double-header.
Richard Bryne’s side is yet to keep a clean sheet this season, a statistic that City will be looking to punish.
It’s a season defining game for Kisnorbo’s side and they will be seeking a vital three points as they make a push towards the top four.
What’s the team news?
Jodie Taylor is eligible for her first match in City colours this weekend and the English international will be looking to make an impact for her new side on the big stage at ANZ Stadium.
1.Lydia WILLIAMS (gk), 2.Yukari KINGA, 3.Lauren BARNES, 4.Ashley HATCH, 6.Aivi LUIK, 7.Steph CATLEY (C), 9.Larissa CRUMMER, 10.Jess FISHLOCK, 12. Jodie TAYLOR, 11.Rhali DOBSON, 13.Rebekah STOTT, 14.Alanna KENNEDY, 15.Amy JACKSON, 16. Sofia SAKALIS 17.Kyah SIMON, 19.Tyla-Jay VLAJNIC, 23.Melissa HUDSON (gk)
**two to be omitted**
Ins: 12.Jodie TAYLOR (promoted), 16. Sofia SAKALIS (promoted)
Outs: Nil
Unavailable: 20.Emily SHIELDS (wrist – indefinite)
1.Lydia WILLIAMS (gk), 2.Yukari KINGA, 3.Lauren BARNES, 4.Ashley HATCH, 6.Aivi LUIK, 7.Steph CATLEY (C), 9.Larissa CRUMMER, 10.Jess FISHLOCK, 12. Jodie TAYLOR, 11.Rhali DOBSON, 13.Rebekah STOTT, 14.Alanna KENNEDY, 15.Amy JACKSON, 16. Sofia SAKALIS 17.Kyah SIMON, 19.Tyla-Jay VLAJNIC, 23.Melissa HUDSON (gk)
**two to be omitted**
Ins: 12.Jodie TAYLOR (promoted), 16. Sofia SAKALIS (promoted)
Outs: Nil
Unavailable: 20.Emily SHIELDS (wrist – indefinite
Match Details
Westfield W-League Round 9
Monday 1 January 2017
Melbourne City FC vs Western Sydney Wanderers
Venue: ANZ Stadium, Sydney
Kick-off: 5:20pm (AEDT)
