The Roar's A-League Men tips and predictions: Round 26 - the jostle for finals positions is on in earnest
Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
After attending the the Central Coast Mariners versus Western Sydney Wanderers water polo game last Saturday Night, I have finally come to the conclusion that after years of disappointment, the Mariners can win a grand final.
And it will be this year.
Their domination of the two teams closest to them, the Wanderers and the Melbourne Victory (even after the loss on Saturday night), gave me enough confidence in their abilities.
They may not win the Premiers Plate, however, as this is now the Wanderers’ to lose.
But the Mariners standard of football at the moment is producing numerous chances in front of goal and it’s only a matter of time before they start converting again.
That may well start this weekend against a hapless Sydney FC.
With the last up 1-0 loss to Sydney FC still fresh in their minds, the Mariners will be in no mood to let the pressure of the Wanders get to them.
I cannot see a desperate Sydney FC out gunning the Mariners once again while they are in this vein of form.
This prediction may fall flat on it’s face, but I think Graham Arnold’s charges may well yet have the final word in this competition.
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Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
Central Coast Mariners' star striker Angel Torres has been stood down from playing in the A-League Men after he was charged with sexual assault. …
Mathew Leckie played a pivotal part in Melbourne City claiming an 8-nil win; playing a role in several of his team's goals.
The Mariners must deal with possibly their toughest challenge yet - Kyrgyzstan’s FK Abdysh-Ata Kant in the first leg of the semifinal.
The loser of the Sydney Derby will be under immense pressure entering the final three matches of the season.
A good performance from Michael Ruhs, scoring twice to beat Macarthur and doubling his season goal tally in the process.