Roar Guru
With the race for the finals all but sewn up, Adelaide United host Melbourne City at Hindmarsh Stadium, in a match that can see the Reds finish as high as third. Join The Roar from 7:15pm (AEST) for live scores and commentary.
A few months ago, Adelaide United were on top of the world. They had just won the inaugural FFA Cup and were scoring goals for fun. The Reds were heavy title favourites as their attacking line up and flair proved to be almost unstoppable.
Fast forward to the present and the Reds have lost crucial matches and fallen to fifth on the table. This game is Adelaide’s last chance to regain some form before the finals.
City had to wait until Round 5 for their first win, however since then have had a steady season, with a stretch of five matches undefeated being ended against Perth Glory last week.
The last few meetings between these two sides have been deadlocked, with three draws and a win to either side in their last five matches. Last time City recorded an emphatic victory which ultimately put their season on track.
Melbourne City will welcome back Kew Jaliens from suspension, as well as of Jason Hoffman and Nick Symeoy. However they are without Paulo Retre (suspension – one week) and Jack Clisby (ankle).
Adelaide United will be greatly motivated by the return of star players Marcelo Carrusca and Awer Mabil. Ben Warland and Paul Izzo also return to the starting line up. Defender Nigel Boogaard is out suspended, which could prove to be a crucial loss.
A City win tonight will see both sides return to this venue in Week 1 of the finals. A win for the Reds however, could see them jump to the third and have another crack at the Roar.
Prediction
Expect the Reds to bounce back, with the inclusions of star players to give their attack back its flair.
Adelaide 2-1
Can the Reds bounce back after a two-game losing streak? Or can City kick the door down into the finals with a win? Join The Roar from 7:15pm (AEST) for live scores and debate in our live blog.