Another massive round of the Hyundai A-league is set for this weekend with the action kicking off with a top of the table clash between the Western Sydney Wanderers and Melbourne City. Continue reading for all of our A-league Round 17 Preview and Betting Tips.
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Western Sydney Wanderers vs Melbourne City (Friday 7.40pm AEDT)
The Wanderers won’t have to wait long to get revenge for their loss three weeks ago to this side in controversial circumstances after one of their goals was disallowed despite play being blown to commence by the referee. Melbourne City has gone undefeated over their last four matches and their incredible goal scoring record has continued as they have 10 goals over that stretch.
Meanwhile the Wanderers have cooled off since they won seven straight games and despite a win last week against the Mariners it took until the final minutes for them to claim the three points. We expect a stronger performance from them on home soil but the two sides will split the points this weekend with not much between them.
TIP: Draw @ $3.75 with CrownBet
Wellington Phoenix vs Central Coast Mariners (Saturday 5.15pm AEDT)
These two sides have the worst defences in the league, which suggests this could be a high scoring match. The Mariners haven’t kept a clean sheet this season and are averaging over two goals scored against them per match. They are still stranded on the bottom of the ladder but their latest signing Luis Garcia – the former Liverpool star was able to create a goal for the side, which gives the Mariners a bit of hope for the remainder of the year. The Phoenix hasn’t won a match since Round 9 and they are one of the most out of form teams in the league. Their latest loss to the Jets in Newcastle has seen them drop to their lowest spot on the ladder this season. The two sides should balance each other out and we expect the match to end in a draw.
TIP: Draw @ $3.65 with William Hill
Sydney FC vs Brisbane Roar (Saturday 7.30pm AEDT)
The Sky Blues return home this week after another loss to their rivals the Melbourne Victory. The side has fallen to their foes in their last three matches now and they will want to bounce back this week after dropping to fifth place on the ladder. Their biggest issue this season has been their lack of goal scoring threat up front and with their captain Alex Brosque remaining on the sidelines through injury for this one their inability to score will continue this week.
However, the Roar has conceded eight goals in their last two games and has only managed to score the one goal. They were missing Jamie Maclaren over that period but he will return this weekend to offer another threat up front. Although with the side struggling at the back and out of form we will be backing the Sky Blues to pick up the victory at home.
TIP: Sydney FC @ $2.20 with Sportsbet
Perth Glory vs Melbourne Victory (Saturday 9.30pm AEDT)
This will be the fourth time these two sides will meet this season if you include the FFA Cup final that was claimed by the Victory. The contests are split with each side picking up a victory and their last match ended in a draw. The Glory climbed into 7th spot on the ladder last week with their biggest win of the season by dismantling the Jets defence as they put six into the back of the net. However, it won’t be that easy for the side this weekend with the Victory returning to top form with a win over the Sky Blues and the Roar the week before. In both of those matches they have been able to maintain a clean sheet, which shows their concentration, is paying off on defence. The defending champions will earn the three points in this one.
TIP: Victory @ $2.10 with Palmerbet
Adelaide United vs Newcastle Jets (Sunday 5pm AEDT)
The Reds season has continued to be revived and they picked up their most impressive win last week as they defeated the Roar at Suncorp stadium in convincing fashion. To start the season they couldn’t buy a goal but they seem to be scoring them at will now as the side has found a way to constantly create solid chances on the attack whilst their defence has been solid allowing just three goals across their last six games.
Meanwhile the Jets season has fallen to tatters and it only got worse last week as they suffered a 6-1 defeat in front of their home fans. The Jets have the worst attack in the league and they shouldn’t trouble the Reds newfound defence and they will suffer another hefty defeat.
TIP: Adelaide/Adelaide - HT/FT @ $2.10 with Sportsbet
Take note: Any of the tips in this article are simply the author’s opinion, so bet at your own risk and always gamble responsibly. Also be sure to check out the Before You Bet Twitter Page for all our thoughts in the lead up to bets! Happy punting!
