Roar Guru
Melbourne Victory face off against Sydney FC in the Big Blue clash at Etihad Stadium on Australia Day. Join The Roar from 7:30pm (AEDT) for live scores and coverage.
Melbourne Victory seem to have found their mojo. The middle of the season hasn’t been pleasant for them though a comprehensive win against an in-form Brisbane Roar last week is a good sign that the Champions are back.
The best way to test for sure, though, is an Australia Day clash against Sydney FC. It’s a match that always promises tension, controversy and goals.
The first instalment this season saw Victory come from behind twice to defeat Sydney 4-2 at Allianz Stadium. And a similar edge-of-your-seat experience can be expected this time around.
Graham Arnold’s Sky Blues could climb to the top of the ladder with a win over their rivals tonight, and have been in good form over the middle of the season. With Brendan O’Neill, Andrew Hoole and Alex Gersbach all returning from Olyroos duty, Sydney will be at their best and ready to take on a strong Victory outfit.
Sydney’s recent performances also place them in a good position to take the points tonight, and finally overcome Victory, which they have failed to do in their past eight attempts.
A win for Melbourne Victory would put them level third with Sydney, and just three points behind top spot. However, they haven’t had as much luck with returning Olyroos.
Of the five that departed for international duty, only two can be said to be regular starting XI players, and one of those players – Thomas Deng – returns with an injury that will force him to sit out of the clash.
The Big Blue is always a clash that promises to entertain, and this instalment should be no different. Expect both sides to tussle for possession, though Melbourne’s midfield will need to be at their best to keep up with a strong Sydney engine.
Prediciton: Sydney FC to win 2-1