With Adelaide United’s clash against Central Coast Mariners kicking-off on Saturday afternoon, we take a closer look at three dangermen the Reds should look out for when the two sides face-off at Coopers Stadium.
Fabio Ferreira
Providing a sleek and perfectly weighted assist for the Mariners’ second goal last week, Ferreira was his usual explosive self and looked to get into one-on-one situations as often as possible. United defenders and supporters are well aware of the dangers Ferreira can cause and his ability to split defences with his passing or direct runs could see him light-up Coopers Stadium on Saturday. The Reds’ fullbacks, will need to be on high alert when the Portuguese winger is in possession and will need to close him down to prevent his involvement going forward.
Round 14:
Total Shots: 2
Shot Assists: 2
Duels won: 85.7%
Passing Accuracy: 84.2%
Nick Montgomery
Hard-man and defensive midfielder, Nick Montgomery, will undoubtedly look to boss United’s midfield three. The booking-prone No. 8 will have a tough task in stamping out the Reds’ advancements, but will try and make his impression on the match felt early in the game and put doubt in the minds of United’s players. Montgomery had an assured outing in the last match between the two teams in Round last season, and will be desperate to perform similarly to help his side take points back to Gosford.
Round 14:
Passing Accuracy: 53.1%
Interceptions: 5
Duels won: 42.9%
Fouls Conceded: 4
Mitch Austin
Not only did Austin get on the score sheet against the reigning Hyundai A-League Champions, it was his pinpoint corner that helped open the scoring for Central Coast in what was an incredible first half display. Austin’s goal was a clinical finish in a one-on-one situation with Victory’s Danny Vukovic, the 24-year-old taking full advantage of the chance that put the Mariners up 3-0 within 35 minutes. He squandered a chance that looked to put the game to bed close to the hour mark, but was energetic for the entirety of Central Coast’s dominance, but that was only short lived.
Round 14:
Goals: 1
Total Shots: 6
Shot Assist: 1
Passing Accuracy: 71.4%
Adelaide United will face Central Coast Mariners in Round 15 of the Hyundai A-League 2015/16 season on Saturday, 16 January at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 4.45pm ACDT.
