The fabled Melbourne derby headlines an exciting weekend of A-League action ahead, with six matches scheduled across the country. Sydney FC will be looking to reinstate themselves as a contender against Western United, while Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar will battle to avoid the wooden spoon.
Some of the matchups this week are hard to split, so check out our ‘Matchday 19’ preview and A-League betting tips below.
A-League Round 19 Betting Tips
Melbourne City FC vs Melbourne Victory
Saturday 19th March, 7.45pm (AEDT)
The hotly anticipated return of the Melbourne derby could not have come at a better time, with both sides fighting fit at the top of the table.
City are vying with Western United for top spot, while the Victory are also well entrenched in the finals positions.
The rivalry between these two sides is intense, and City have held bragging rights in recent times.
They have not been beaten since 2019 and dominated Victory in 2021, winning 16-3 on aggregate over four matches.
This is reflected in the odds for the upcoming game, City heavy favourites with the bookies.
Its hard to argue with that, however the spice of a derby always throws up surprises and I can see these two powerhouses playing out a draw for the third time in a row.
Sydney FC vs Western United
Saturday 19th March, 7.45pm (AEDT)
For some bizarre reason the A-League has scheduled the two standout matches of the round at the same time, meaning you will have to choose between watching this encounter or the Melbourne derby.
As predicted, Sydney finally bounced back from a run of five losses to down Perth away from home, reigniting their season which was quickly slipping away.
On the other hand, United finally came back down to earth after four wins on the trot, playing out a 2-2 draw with fellow title contenders Melbourne City.
Regardless, the form lines suggest that United should head to Sydney brimming with confidence.
The teams have been relatively evenly matched historically and this game also appears tough to pick. As such, I’ll opt for the draw.
Perth Glory vs Brisbane Roar
Saturday 19th March, 10.45pm (AEDT)
One for the cellar dwellers! Perth and Brisbane have both been abysmal this season, the latter showing slightly more promise recently with two wins from their last five.
The home side was looking to make the most of a string of matches in WA, however so far, they have been fruitless.
Surely this is as good a time as any to get some points on the board for the team in purple.
The bookies can’t split these sides and I feel anxious backing either, but I think Perth can get the job done in familiar conditions.
