Melbourne City will return to ctrl:cyber Pitch this Sunday afternoon for a high-stakes clash with Brisbane Roar, as the team looks to close out a demanding week on a high.
After a narrow loss to Western Sydney on Wednesday night, Michael Matricciani’s side will be aiming to bounce back with three crucial points as the race tightens at the top of the table.
Here are the key talking points ahead of Sunday’s fixture.
SAME OPPONENT, DIFFERENT STAGE
City and Brisbane are set to meet for the second time in just three weeks, following a 1-1 draw in Queensland back in mid-January.
That night, City looked on track for victory after Holly McNamara’s first-half penalty, only for the hosts to snatch a late equaliser with a long-range strike. While the result was frustrating, the performance on the road offered plenty of positives, with City controlling large portions of the game.
Now back on home turf, the team will take confidence from that showing as they look to go one better in front of their fans. Brisbane, meanwhile, will arrive full of belief and with plenty to play for as the competition heats up.
SHARPENING THE FINAL THIRD
City were left ruing missed chances on Wednesday after a 1-0 loss to Western Sydney, a match where they dominated possession and territory but couldn’t find the final product in the attacking third.
Michael Matricciani will be looking for a strong response from his front third, with Holly McNamara, Aideen Keane, Chinaza Uchendu, and Bryleeh Henry all pushing to make their mark. Deven Jackson also continued her run of form, while Shelby McMahon, Karly Roestbakken and Leticia McKenna will add further drive and link-up from midfield.
While City will look to receive a huge boost in attack, as young gun Danella Butrus looks set to make her return after missing the last few weeks with concussion.
With no shortage of creativity and pace, execution in the final third could be the difference this Sunday.
CLOSING OUT A BIG WEEK
Sunday’s fixture marks the third in just one week for City, following last weekend’s match in Adelaide and Wednesday’s clash with the Wanderers.
It’s been a gruelling run, but a return to ctrl:cyber Pitch presents the chance to finish strong as the race at the top heats up.
With Brisbane pushing up the table, this match shapes as a blockbuster six-pointer between two of the competition’s most dangerous sides.
City will be aiming to close out the week with a performance that not only earns three points but builds momentum heading into next weekend’s Melbourne Derby.
Fixture Details
Ninja A-League: Round 16
Melbourne City FC v Western Sydney Wanderers
Sunday 8 February, 5:00pm KO
ctrl:cyber Pitch, City Football Academy
click here to secure your tickets.
