It’s the battle for top spot and could be crucial in determining the Hyundai A-League Premiers for 2015/16. And if the Wanderers are going to halt the Reds’ advances, these three will be key in doing so.
Mark Bridge
The fourth highest goal scorer in Hyundai A-League history, Mark Bridge, has been in fine form again this season. Contributing to a total of 16 goals for Western Sydney this campaign, scoring nine himself, Bridge has picked up the slack from the struggling import, Federico Piovaccari. Leading the line last week against the Jets, it was Bridge’s darting forward run and quality cutback for Joshua Sotirio that gave the Wanderers the lead, and the subsequent win. Bridge can do it all in a forward sense, and with the suspension to Jordan Elsey and injury to Tarek Elrich depleting the Reds’ defensive personnel, United’s somewhat makeshift backline will need to pay close attention to Western Sydney’s No. 19.
Round 23:
Total Shots: 2
Shots on Target: 1
Total Crosses: 1
Shot Assists: 1
Mitch Nichols
The acquisition of Mitch Nichols by Tony Popovic and his coaching staff has proved a masterstroke and pivotal to the Wanderers resurgence back towards the top of the Hyundai A-League following a disastrous domestic campaign last season. Nichols is one of the brightest, if not the brightest, Australian midfield talents based here at the moment and his quality on the ball has lit-up the competition on a regular occasion for Popovic and his men. Linking up well with Bridge going forward, this partnership, which is often based upon the distribution and creativity of the attacking-midfielder, will be paramount to Western Sydney’s chances on Saturday night.
Round 23:
Passing Accuracy: 85.1%
Total Crosses: 2
Total Shots: 2
Interceptions: 4
Romeo Castelen
Romeo Castelen has already torn the Reds up in Round 2 and was lively in the meeting of the two sides in Round 13. Whilst his more recent performance wasn’t as electric as earlier this season, Castelen has been on a strong turn of form in recent weeks. When he’s fit, Castelen can be unstoppable on the wings for Western Sydney, and with United’s already weakened defensive ranks, the Dutchman could be the one to break down Guillermo Amor’s squad. His pace and directness could cause the Reds some serious problems out wide, with his experience in matches that could determine the Premiership, Castelen’s significance should not be underestimated.
Round 23:
Shot Assists: 2
Total Shots: 1
Passing Accuracy: 71.9%
Duels Won: 37.5%
Adelaide United will face Western Sydney Wanderers in Round 24 of the Hyundai A-League 2015/16 season on Saturday, 19 March at Pirtek Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.00pm ACDT.
