Adelaide United begin a three-game away venture in eight days, starting with Wellington Phoenix in Sydney on Saturday night.
The Reds’ five-match unbeaten streak ended against Sydney FC last time out and they will be determined to respond against a rampant Wellington side.
Adelaide may have kicked off the New Year with a comfortable 4-0 win over the New Zealand outfit, but Ufuk Talay’s side come into the clash off the back of a three-game winning run.
The Phoenix most recently edged Melbourne Victory 1-0 to move just one point adrift of the top six.
Team news
Jacob Tratt is available for selection after returning from suspension, while new English signing Zach Clough has been named in the extended squad and could be a chance to make his Reds debut.
What the expert says
Lucas Pantelis: Wellington is coming off a midweek win over the recent FFA Cup winners in Melbourne Victory to make it three in a row and will be very confident heading into the weekend game. Adelaide will be looking to bounce back after their home defeat against Sydney.
One to watch
Lucas Pantelis: Adelaide United signed Zach Clough and he arrived in Adelaide last weekend so it will be interesting to see if they put him straight into the starting line-up. Socceroo Craig Goodwin has massive responsibility as the main man going forward and a lot of Adelaide’s attacks will come through the left hand side.
Key battle
Lucas Pantelis: Jaushua Sotirio against the two Reds centre-backs will be the key match-up as Sotirio has speed and power. It will be interesting to see how the defence handles him and I believe that battle will determine the result.
One change you’d like to see
Lucas Pantelis: Would like to see Louis D’Arrigo come into the 11 as he brings a different dynamic to the midfield three.
Head-to-head
Played: 42
Wins: 20
Draws: 12
Losses: 10
Last five meetings
4-0 win (H)
0-0 draw (H)
2-1 loss (A)
1-1 draw (A)
1-2 loss (H)
Prediction
Lucas Pantelis: With both teams being free-flowing attacking sides, there will be goals in this game. 2-2 draw.
Match details:
Saturday, 12 February vs Wellington Phoenix
Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 – Matchweek 14
Kick-off 4.20pm ACDT
Venue: Netstrata Jubilee Stadium
Stream: Paramount+
