A-League expert tips and predictions – Round 4

It’s another shortened round in the A-League this weekend, and another chance for our experts to get themselves rolling in their tipping comp.

So far it’s been tough doing, and this week promises to be no different. With only four games, it also gives them less room for error, with the Western Sydney Wanderers playing their Asian Champions League final on Sunday morning, meaning the Brisbane Roar get a break this week as well.

You get the feeling Mike Mulvey and his men will treasure every day off at the moment, as there’s probably a bit of soul searching to do up there.

Old (but actually quite young) Vince Rugari was on the money last week, with four out of four for his tipping. He’s now equalled Mitch at the top of the ladder! Dom copped a rough one two weeks ago, and still sits at the back of the pack.

So without further fanfare, let’s get into this week’s games!

Friday 31 October

Melbourne City v Adelaide United @ AAMI Park – 7:40pm on SBS

Janek Speight says: Adelaide. I’d like to see City make the finals and they need to start winning. But Adelaide look too hot at the moment.

Vince Rugari says: Adelaide look good, City look unconvincing – should be an open and shut case this one, unless Villa decides to go out on a blaze of glory. ADL.

Tony Tannous says: It wouldn’t surprise me if City pulled out a performance to see off Villa, but on current form it’s hard to look beyond Adelaide. Their stretch & speed should help them control this, 2-1.

Dom Trimboli says: Things are seriously starting to click at Adelaide, but I feel City can grab something here. Draw.

Mitch Grima says: Adelaide United – it’d be nice to think David Villa will cram 10 games worth of magic into however many he is here for, but Adelaide look unstoppable at the moment.

Saturday 1 November

Perth Glory v Newcastle Jets @ NIB Stadium – 7:30pm (4:30pm Local) on FOXTEL

Janek Speight says: Perth. They were brilliant midweek in the FFA Cup and despite the quick turnaround at least they don’t have to travel. Jets are coming off a gruelling trip to Wellington, tough ask.

Vince Rugari says: This might be Perth’s second game in less than a week but this is the fourth away game in a row for the Jets and apparently not all is well behind the scenes. I’ll take Glory.

Tony Tannous says: I was disappointed with the Jets in Wellington. The FFA Cup win over the Victory will be a big confidence boost for Glory & if they score early, the Jets could open right up, as they did in Wellington, 3-1

Dom Trimboli says: Seeing a straightforward win for Perth. Keogh will be confident of adding to his growing tally against a rather uninspiring Jets outfit.

Mitch Grima says: Glory – a combination of Newcastle’s capitulation in Wellington last week and Perth’s impressive hit out in the FFA Cup win over Victory make the home side deserved favourites.

Sunday 2 November

Sydney FC v Central Coast @ Allianz Stadium – 5:00pm on FOXTEL

Janek Speight says: Draw. Janko produced the goods last weekend, and Sydney looked decent, but they’ll find it tough to break down an organised Coast side that has had a week off.

Vince Rugari says: I’m on Sydney to continue their very impressive start to the season with a win over a plucky Mariners outfit.

Tony Tannous says: I’m sure many of the Mariners will be roused playing against Arnie, and will put in a big effort, but expecting Sydney to be too strong, especially given they’re at home. 2-0

Dom Trimboli says: I think the home side will be good for the 3 points. Sydney.

Mitch Grima says: Sydney – There’s still much more to come from the Sky Blues and the numerous sub plots will have them up for this one.

Monday 3 November

Melbourne Victory v Wellington Phoenix @ Etihad Stadium – 7:30PM on FOXTEL

Janek Speight says: Phoenix. Going for an upset in this one. Victory could be without both Thompson and Berisha, and have to pick themselves up after their FFA Cup exit. Perfect chance for Wellington to prove their finals credentials.

Vince Rugari says: This’ll be a really good game. Victory picked up a fair injury toll from their FFA Cup clash so the hangover from that combined with Wellington’s good form = me tipping a draw.

Tony Tannous says: Burns & McGlinchey going great, and scoring goals, and might cause Melb a few issues here, but if the Victory have had their post-Derby downer in Perth and are back up for this, should be strong enough. 2-1

Dom Trimboli says: Wellington will be full of confidence, but getting over the Victory at home is no easy task. Victory.

Mitch Grima says: Draw – Both sides are in good knick and a draw will be valuable for Phoenix.