The A-League has been hit with more scheduling challenges over the last week as a result of the devastating floods which have gripped Queensland and New South Wales. Thankfully, despite some postponements, there are still six games earmarked for this weekend.
Check out our ‘Matchday 17’ preview and A-league betting tips for the key games of the week below.
A-League Round 17 Betting Tips
Melbourne Victory vs Macarthur FC
Friday 4th March, 7.45pm (AEDT)
The Victory had last weekend off with their match against Brisbane cancelled due to the floods, meaning they are well rested heading into this clash with Macarthur on home soil.
It is a vital clash for Melbourne who have fallen back into the pack of late, sitting fifth level on points with Wellington who are down in seventh.
The hosting side will be looking to draw on strong home form, having won three of their last four matches in Melbourne. On the other hand, Macarthur bring confidence after taking 7 points from three recent matches.
Macarthur won both league encounters between the sides last year and they will be tough to beat but I’m backing the Victory to make a statement in front of adoring fans.
Central Coast Mariners vs Brisbane Roar
Saturday 5th March, 5.05pm (AEDT)
As with Melbourne Victory, Brisbane are rested but lacking match practice after a weekend off. What better way to resume their season than against fellow cellar dwellers Central Coast?
It truly has been a dire season for both sides, the Roar sitting bottom by goal difference. There has been far greater cause for optimism in the Central Coast camp though, where there are some promising talents. The Mariners have also been more competitive recently, getting on the scoresheet and taking it up to finals bound sides.
Meanwhile, Brisbane has lost its last two games by an aggregate score of 0-5.
Subsequently, I’m backing CCM to shoot clear of wooden spoon territory in this one.
Perth Glory vs Adelaide United
Sunday 6th March, 7.05pm (AEDT)
This is the one match of the round that the bookies can’t split.
Perth are set for a dream run of home matches to end the season, starting with this one against a recently inconsistent Adelaide outfit. Adelaide has chalked up wins against the high-flying Melbourne City and Central Coast, but dropped points against finals rivals Macarthur and Sydney FC, leaving them fourth but set to be leapfrogged by the Victory.
Perth lost its two matches last week but bounced back to draw against City, boosting its confidence.
Despite that, Adelaide look too strong on paper and have taken three wins from their last five away matches. Travelling to WA is a different prospect to your usual trip though and Perth will be more motivated than ever to perform well on home soil. They are hard to split, therefore, I’m tipping a draw.
