And so, it all comes down to this. It’s Melbourne City vs Adelaide United at AAMI Park and our Reds are still in the hunt for the Premiers’ Plate. These three Citizens could stop us from claiming it, though.
Aaron Mooy
Arguably the greatest performer of Hyundai A-League season 2015/16, Aaron Mooy has, on so many occasions, been simply unstoppable. But returning from Socceroos duty last week, where he was a class act against Tajikistan and Jordan, Mooy wasn’t as influential in City’s 3-2 loss to Perth Glory. He will surely be eager to rectify this uncharacteristic showing and United’s defence could feel the full force of his destructive abilities. In Round 23 when the Reds hosted City at Coopers Stadium, Mooy wasn’t as dominant as he has been, and Adelaide will definitely need to emulate a similar job on the creative midfielder, keeping him off the ball as much as possible.
Round 26:
Shot Assists: 6
Passing Accuracy: 90.6%
Total Crosses: 7
Interceptions: 2
Patrick Kisnorbo
Patrick Kisnorbo’s large frame will battle it out with that of Bruce Djite’s throughout the 90 minutes of this massive Round 27 clash at AAMI Park. The 35-year-old centre-half has been at the heart of City’s defence for the majority of the season, missing only three matches, and despite Melbourne leaking the league’s third-most goals, Kisnorbo has been a massive presence. His leadership and experience is second-to-none in Melbourne’s side, and he has the tendency to inspire his teammates whenever they need it most. With the Reds being in strong goal-scoring form of late, Kisnorbo will need to be on form to prevent his side conceding more goals this season.
Round 26:
Tackles: 2
Clearances: 5
Interceptions: 2
Passing Accuracy: 68%
Bruno Fornaroli
Even in underperforming team performances, Bruno Fornaroli always finds a way to put the ball into the back of the net. His goal against Glory saw the Uruguayan beat two defenders before rounding Ante Covic and slotting the ball home with ease. He was kept relatively quiet against United in Round 23, but the way he’s lit the Hyundai A-League this season has been phenomenal and he is the biggest threat to the Reds chances of claiming the three points. Silencing Fornaroli won’t solve all the problems that City can cause, but cutting him out of the game will definitely be majorly beneficial.
Round 26:
Goals: 1
Total Shots: 3
Shots on Target: 1
Duels Won: 37.5%
Adelaide United will face Melbourne City in Round 27 of the Hyundai A-League 2015/16 season on Friday, 8 April at AAMI Park. Kick-off is at 7.10pm ACST.
