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.
Spanish midfielder Dani Sanchez arrived in windy Wellington on the lookout for an A-League contract after being released by Scottish first division side Inverness after two seasons. He needed a new club and a new beginning.
When Wellington Phoenix came knocking, he headed to the New Zealand capital for a one-month trial. Within two hours of stepping off the plane, he was playing in a trial match against lower division club Miramar Rangers.
Eleven days later he scored his first goal for Wellington against the New Zealand Under-20s in a trial match. His good form continued in the following trial matches, scoring goals against Melbourne Heart and Team Wellington.
He did enough to impress manager Ricki Herbert and was rewarded with a one-year contract.
It turned out to be a successful decision for the club, as Sanchez made the attacking midfielder position his own. In 18 appearances, he has scored five goals and has many assists to his name already. Aside from scoring goals, he provides opportunities for the strikers. With his excellent short passing ability, he may well be named the “A-League’s Fabregas”.
Averaging over 80 minutes per game, Sanchez overcame an injury cloud earlier in the season to regain his fitness. His efforts have played a part in lifting Wellington to fourth on the table, after many pundits predicted them to be lingering at the bottom.
After his performances over the season, Sanchez is sure to be an important player heading into the finals. As long as he keeps fit, along with the rest of the squad, Wellington could well be challenging for the title.
Are you the ultimate team manager? Pick your own superstar team and go head to head with other football fans for glory and cash prizes on Draftstars. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Set a deposit limit.
Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
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 loser of the Sydney Derby will be under immense pressure entering the final three matches of the season.
Anthony Caceres is a player with immense talent and has a fantastic work rate, broke the deadlock against the Mariners in the 74th minute.
There can’t be too many sports around the world where a former match-going fan can one day rise to the rank of professional coach…
Round 19 was an interesting weekend of football with no draws, 19 goals in six matches, two five-goal games on Sunday and for the…