Melbourne City FC will look to make it back-to-back wins when they take on Perth Glory at nib Stadium on Saturday night. Ahead of the match, we take a look at the five things to look forward to.
Top-four awaits
Melbourne City’s 3-0 win over Newcastle sees City knocking firmly on the door of the top-four.
With second-placed Melbourne Victory facing fourth-placed Adelaide United, an opportunity presents itself for either Perth to extend their lead at the top or for City to finish the round inside the top-four.
Four-points currently separate the top-five teams in the league, with all to play for, Saturday night’s clash is shaping up to be a thriller as City look to end Perth’s unbeaten run.
The spectacular
Head Coach Warren Joyce’s side is coming off a comprehensive 3-0 win over Newcastle Jets at AAMI Park in Round 6.
In that match, the hosts added two more stunners to the highlights reel they are steadily growing this season, with both Riley McGree and Luke Brattan adding their names to the list which already includes Ritchie De Laet and Bruno Fornaroli.
Glory shot-stopper Liam Reddy is one of the in-form goalkeeper’s in the league, but there’s no doubt he’ll be cautious of City’s ability to hit the back of the net from all sorts of angles.
Like a fine wine
Eugene Galekovic has proven that age is merely a number, with an outstanding start to the season so far.
The 37-year-old has not only provided great leadership, but he’s also made some terrific saves at crucial stages for Joyce’s side.
Praised by the gaffer for his professionalism and commitment to the team, Galekovic will be looking to have another stand-out performance when he faces the firepower that is Glory’s front third.
Lightning Lachie
The inclusion of Lachie Wales, alongside fellow youngster Riley McGree, has been a breath of fresh air this season.
Wales brings exuberance and a no-fear attitude every time he takes to the field in City blue, attacking the opposition’s defence with a great sense of purpose and a willingness to score or create chances for his teammates.
Last Sunday night, the 21-year-old notched his first A-League goal, after he utilised the space in front of him and finished calmly following Ritchie De Laet’s release. Now that he has secured his first league goal and first goal for the Club, there is no doubt that the speedy youngster will be looking to increase his tally.
Tis the season
After beginning the festive season period with a dominant performance against the Jets, City will be looking to extend their unbeaten run when they face one of the toughest trips in the competition, Perth Glory at nib Stadium.
Following their trip across the Nullarbor, City will face another difficult fixture, playing the in-form Reds at Coopers Stadium in Round 8.
The run of blockbuster fixtures continues in December, as Joyce’s side returns to Melbourne to host cross-town rivals Melbourne Victory in the annual Christmas Derby at AAMI Park on Saturday 22 December.
