Adelaide United will be aiming to take down Newcastle Jets and extend its winning streak to three matches at Coopers Stadium on Sunday, something yet to be achieved this season.
The Reds produced another spirited performance to prevail past Perth Glory 2-1 with consolidating third spot on the Isuzu UTE A-League ladder vital.
Adelaide has suffered just two defeats this year from 11 matches and appear to have turned a corner following a slow start to the campaign.
The Jets, like Adelaide, have struggled with consistency at times and are floundering at the minute – winless in three matches. Their most recent clash against Wellington Phoenix saw them fall late 3-2.
Adelaide has also lost just once in its preceding 10 league encounters with Newcastle, recording seven wins and two draws during that span, while prevailing in its last three meetings.
Team news
Yaya Dukuly is also close to a return from a hamstring issue, while Lachlan Brook is out of isolation after recovering from COVID-19, but is not match fit and will not be available. Nick Ansell, Kusini Yengi and James Delianov remain long-term absentees with respective injuries.
What the experts say:
Gwaye Salley: Adelaide United has shown so far this season the “never give up attitude” with some late comebacks to earn a draw or win a game. They have some young talented players coming off the bench to bring more excitement as well.
Hiroshi Ibusuki has been phenomenal since arriving at the club and Lachlan Barr is very strong at the back, showing the depth of players accessible at the local level.
It has not been too encouraging for Arthur’s Papas men last few games, they expect to turn things around by trying to get a win this weekend.
Michael Zappone: Adelaide will be high on confidence after a strong performance away to Perth last week. It was an impressive performance by Carl Veart’s side given it was Glory’s homecoming. Newcastle promise so much, play attractive football, but have been unable to secure enough points, so I think they’ll find it hard to come away with anything from this one.
One to watch
Gwaye Salley: Craig Goodwin the newly appointed captain for the Reds has been in some good form on the pitch and is still the man to deliver when needed.
Michael Zappone: The way Hiroshi Ibusuki launched himself mid-air, attacking the ball with perfect timing and little disregard for his safety highlighted the importance of such a player for the Reds. His presence both in the air and danger in the 18 yard box will be a concern for the Jets defence.
Key battle
Gwaye Salley: I’m looking forward to witnessing Newcastle’s Brazilian Daniel Penha against Isaías. Another key battle will be between Ibusuki against Matthew Jurman and Jordan Elsey.
Michael Zappone: The battle on the wing could hold the key here with Craig Goodwin in fine form, Jason Hoffman will have to be at his best to stop the Socceroo.
One change you’d like to see
Gwaye Salley: You don’t change a winning team unless someone is injured so I expect Carl Veart to carry the same starting 11.
Michael Zappone: I’d love to see more of Mo Toure! Wouldn’t we all? Again he showed us why he is one of the most exciting up and coming players in the A-League Men’s competition last weekend by scoring just minutes after coming on against Perth.
Head-to-head
Played: 49
Wins: 21
Draws: 14
Losses: 14
Last five meetings
1-2 win (A)
1-4 win (A)
2-1 win (H)
0-3 loss (H)
2-1 win (H)
Prediction
Gwaye Salley: I’m backing Adelaide United to win, but keep in mind Newcastle failed to win the last 3 games so they will try to create an upset.
Michael Zappone: The Jets have a propensity to concede soft goals this season, it has been their weakness. The Reds to make it three wins in a row with a 2-1 win. Goodwin and Ibusuki to score for the Reds and Beka Mikeltadze to find the back of the net for Newcastle.
Match details:
Sunday, 13 March vs Newcastle Jets
Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 – Matchweek 18
Kick-off 6.45pm ACDT
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Stream: Paramount+
