Double the games, double the fun
Another blockbuster double header awaits, as our women’s and men’s teams go back-to-back for another 180 minutes of football at AAMI Park on Saturday.
First up, our W-League side battles it out with the Perth Glory for a top-four spot before Warren Joyce’s side looks to return to winning ways against the Phoenix.
Two games for the price of one is excellent value if you ask us, so we’ll see you at AAMI Park on Saturday!
The enthusiasm of youth
Since making his debut is City’s Round 10 win over the Central Coast Mariners, Nathanial Atkinson has continued to go from strength to strength in Warren Joyce’s side.
The 18-year-old has slotted seamlessly into the right-back position and has been one of City’s most consistent performers over the last couple of weeks. Atkinson not only fulfils his defensive duties well, but the youngster has some dangerous weapons going forward.
His impressive assist against the Wanderers was a perfect example of his ability to punish the opposition, with his quick feet and lethal final ball.
Similarly, Daniel Arzani showed glimpses of his attacking prowess in his second-half cameo against the Wanderers. The attacker troubled Western Sydney’s defence in his 20-minute spell, as his fearless approach paired with his incredible footballing ability came to life.
Ross the Boss strikes again
Ross McCormack extended his impressive run of form in front of goal on Monday, netting his eighth goal for the season against the Wanderers.
The Scotsman showed no sign of the knee injury that troubled him against the Sky Blues in Round 11 as he played 71 minutes against Western Sydney.
Having made a name for himself as the ‘set-piece specialist’, McCormack has now scored two consecutive goals from open play, increasing his profile as one of the competitions most prolific forwards.
An opportunity to bounce back
City are without a win in their past three games, and will be looking to bounce back when they face the Phoenix in their first home game of 2018.
Joyce’s side took the lead against the Western Sydney Wanderers on New Year’s Day before a two-minute lapse cost City two goals, and ultimately the game.
Despite the string of losses, City remains in fourth place on the league table, equal on points with the third-placed Victory. A win against the Phoenix could propel City into third and kick-start their charge towards the pointy end of the season.
Will Fitzy break his goal drought?
Nick Fitzgerald will be looking to exploit the leaking defence of the Phoenix when the attacker faces off against the Kiwis on Saturday night.
Despite registering three goals, 14 key passes and 10 shots on target, the winger is yet to find the back of the net this season.
Fitzgerald will be up against a Wellington side that has struggled to keep the goals out. The Phoenix have conceded 25 goals so far this season, which is the equal most in the competition alongside Perth Glory.
There is a strong sense that once Fitzy slots one, the goals will begin to start flowing for the flyer.
