FTS A-League Round 7 Preview: Central Coast Mariners vs. Adelaide United
The Central Coast Mariners will play their third game in seven days on Sunday afternoon against none other than the undefeated Adelaide United at Bluetongue Stadium.
The Mariners in recent weeks have been far from their best, but have still managed to take two points from two difficult away games against Melbourne City and the Western Sydney Wanderers. Both games were played within four days of each other, so for the Mariners to be able to grab a point from each game shows signs that the resolute identity Central Coast are known for is returning.
Despite the positives displayed in both of those games, the Mariners have been left in a difficult situation as their schedule is extremely busy at the present time. As a result of this, we’ll be likely to see a rotation of players from Glen Moss, as the fitness and wellbeing of his players will matter more than anything as we enter the 7th round of the season.
Meanwhile, Adelaide United continued their great run of form to start the season with a come from behind win against Wellington Phoenix at Coopers Stadium. It took some late heroics from United’s most lethal player in front of goal, Sergio Cirio. The goal to put Adelaide head was scored with virtually the last kick of the game, leaving the Phoenix heartbroken.
United for the most part dominated the game, deploying the tiki-taka possession based football Gombau has brought to the club. They’re capable of playing at the same level and intensity away from home as they do at home, making them one of the toughest teams in the competition to host.
Head To Head:
Played 29. Central Coast Mariners, 15. Draw, 6. Adelaide United, 8.
Last Meeting:
12/11/2014, FFA Cup game played at Coopers Stadium. Adelaide United 3-2 Central Coast Mariners.
Form Guide:
Adelaide United: DWWDW. Central Coast Mariners: LLLDD
Absentees:
Central Coast Mariners: Brent Griffiths (injured), Matt Simon (injured).
Adelaide United: Bruce Djite (injured), Ben Warland (injured), Jordan Elsey (injured).
Probable XI:
Central Coast Mariners: Reddy; Roux, Bosnar, Anderson, Rose; Hutchinson, Montgomery, Sim, Caceres; Duke, Fitzgerald.
Adelaide United: Galekovic; Elrich, Malik, Boogard, Goodwin; Jeggo, Isais, Carrusca; Mabil, Sanchez, Cirio.
Eyes On: Sergio Cirio
The man simply just can not stop scoring at the moment. You’ll be sure to see Cirio rampaging down Adelaide’s left wing on Wednesday, having the ability to not only create for himself, but his teammates too. On his day, he’s certainly one of the best and most lethal players in the competition.
Prediction:
Central Coast Mariners 0-2 Adelaide United
FTSAUS Fact:
The Mariners have won the last four encounters against Adelaide United at Bluetongue Stadium.
If Adelaide win on Sunday, it would equal to the greatest start the club has ever had, winning five out of their opening seven games.
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