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Sydney FC need to win to stay in touch with the top of the table while Melbourne Heart are still looking to break their winless streak this season. It should be an entertaining clash, so join in the discussion from 5.00pm AEDT as we take you through the match with live scores and updates.
The issues
Redemption is on the menu. Sydney FC were shown up in a narrow loss to Central Coast in Gosford last weekend, indicating there is still some distance between the top sides in the competition and ‘Bling FC’.
Sydney FC have shown they have become tougher to beat, and should be considered favorites today.
Have Melbourne Heart turned a corner? Although the bar wasn’t set all that high, the last two weeks that have seen fighting draws against Western Sydney and Adelaide United, might suggest so.
There’s little doubt there are still issues for the Heart, particularly in midfield, but showing signs of an attacking press and more desire to win the 50-50 ball is a positive effort to build on.
The ins and outs
Along with Alessandro del Piero, Brett Emerton and Mitchell Mallia return to an extended Sydney FC squad, from which two will be omitted.
Melbourne Heart have also announced an extended squad, with Mate Dugandzic’s return the only change to the squad.
The 90 minutes
Heart have struggled to find goals throughout the early season so far, it is hard to see that changing against what has been a resolute Sydney FC.
Farina’s men have conceded only two goals in the past month, it is hard to see them conceding here either.
Harry Kewell’s return from injury was important for the Heart, and having him in midfield behind three quick men is his best position at this stage in his career.
His classy touch on the ball is still present, whether or not he can get enough of the ball to have an impact is a question, having to contend with Nick Carle and Richard Garcia won’t be easy.
Heart have struggled for a link to their front three, often resorting to long balls, so the Heart captain’s role becomes that much greater.
Sydney’s use of Ranko Despotovic has been sublime, as the former J-League striker has given the side a focal point in attack that was missing.
Del Piero should be used behind him to make full use of them both.
The approach of John Aloisi to this game shouldn’t change from last week, where his team took it up to the Wanderers early and went compact when needed.
The prediction
Sydney FC 2-0 Melbourne Heart
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