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.
A rejuvenated Perth Glory have continued their improved form by ending the Western Sydney Wanderers’ seven-game A-League winning run in an exciting 2-2 draw at nib Stadium on Saturday night.
Glory appeared set for a third victory in a week when Mitch Oxborrow delivered his first A-League goal in style in the 60th minute.
However, the Wanderers secured the draw thanks to an 81st minute strike by Mitch Nichols to remain unbeaten in the last eight games and five points clear on top of the table.
Perth made the perfect start, with Diego Castro converting a penalty inside the first two minutes.
However, the Wanderers were threatening and drew level in the 20th minute thanks to a clinically precise corner set piece play.
The corner was taken by Dario Vidosic who went short to Nichols and then Scott Jamieson drove it into the box where Brendon Santalab was waiting to put home his second goal of the season.
It was the Wanderers who continued to press for another goal either side of halftime until Oxborrow joined the party.
The left-footer took a free-kick almost 30 metres from home and scorched the shot around the wall.
A diving Redmayne had no chance of stopping it finding the right corner.
Another well worked piece by Western Sydney where Romeo Castelen and Andreu set up Nichols, saw the game end with the 2-2 draw.
The Wanderers have a short turnaround before hosting the Newcastle Jets on Christmas Eve, while Glory take on a hungry Victory in Melbourne next Sunday.
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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.
A good performance from Michael Ruhs, scoring twice to beat Macarthur and doubling his season goal tally in the process.
Sydney moved into fourth with their point but Glory's finals hopes are now officially extinguished.
Anthony Caceres is a player with immense talent and has a fantastic work rate, broke the deadlock against the Mariners in the 74th minute.