The ultimate test
Melbourne City FC takes on ladder leaders Sydney FC in a blockbuster clash at AAMI Park on Saturday night, kick-off 7:50pm (AEDT).
The reigning Champions and Premiers have only lost one game this season with a staggering goal difference of +32, but with City hitting their best form of the season, Saturday night’s clash is shaping up to be a beauty.
As the pointy end of the season fast approaches there’s no better test then to play the best. Get your tickets here.
Comeback kings
Warren Joyce’s men are currently on a run of six games unbeaten, and arguably the most impressive aspect of that streak is the resilience and belief that they have shown.
For the sixth time in six games, City retrieved a deficit on Sunday against the Roar.
Brisbane took the lead in the 14th minute through Massimo Maccarone, before City responded with two goals of their own as both Marcin Budzinski and Stefan Mauk found the back of the net.
City’s ability to respond to going down on the scoreboard has been the driving factor behind their run of form, and a strength that their opponents will no doubt be wary of.
Magnificent Marcin
Since he was substituted onto the field in the 71st minute and scored an 86th minute equaliser against the Central Coast Mariners in Round 15, Marcin Budzinski is yet to take a backwards step.
The Polish attacker has netted four goals in four games, increasing his season tally to five goals in 13 appearances.
Budzinski’s form has added another dimension to Joyce’s attacking stocks – not only has he showcased his ability to score from anywhere, but also his ability to create chances for his teammates, producing a brilliant assist for Stefan Mauk against the Roar.
Bouzanis Brilliance
Last Sunday’s win against the Roar was a perfect example of the role Dean Bouzanis has played in City’s run of six games undefeated.
The shot-stopper made seven saves, three successful claims, one clearance and 20 long passes.
Of his seven saves, one was a penalty save, denying Massimo Maccarone a late equaliser and ensuring that the team from Melbourne returned home with all three points.
Bouzanis will need to be at his best again on Saturday night as the Sky Blues have netted 46 goals so far this season.
The Showstopper
Daniel Arzani has been one of City’s most prolific attackers since the New Year. The 19-year-old continues to dazzle on the pitch, leaving defenders trailing in his wake and impressing pundits across the country.
With another brilliant performance in Brisbane last weekend, which included one assists, the youngster is full of confidence and primed to take on the ladder leaders.
