By Louise Taffa
Both Conferences are back in action this weekend after only teams from Conference B played in round eight: The Central Coast Mariners defeated Canberra United 2-1 at home, while the Newcastle Jets couldn’t get it done on the road and went down to Sydney FC 3-2.
Looking ahead to Saturday in Conference A, Adelaide United host the league leaders Brisbane Roar. Adelaide have fallen behind in the pecking order after three consecutive losses in addition to a bye, which leaves them second last. As for Roar they will look to continue their five game winning streak to sew up top place for a spot in the Youth League grand final.
Melbourne City will host Perth Glory on Sunday, both teams are trailing closely behind Brisbane Roar. City are one point behind and Glory just three points behind. If Glory defeat City and Roar lose to Adelaide United, Glory will be equal top on points but separated on goal difference.
This permutation could change in the final round.
Conference B will see just one match: Canberra United host Sydney FC, the former still searching for their first three points this season amongst some positive performances and improvement from last year.
Should Sydney FC win, they’ll be equal on points with defending Champions the Western Sydney Wanderers. Then, it will be all to play for in the final round which sees an old classic Sydney Derby!
Adelaide United v Brisbane Roar (Round 9)
Date: Saturday, January 19
Venue: Marsden Sports Complex
Kick-off: 7:30pm AEDT
Melbourne City v Perth Glory (Round 9)
Date: Sunday, January 20
Venue: CB Smith Reserve
Kick-off: 4:00pm AEDT
Canberra United v Sydney FC (Round 6 rescheduled)
Date: Sunday, January 20
Venue: Deakin Stadium
Kick-off: 4:30pm AEDT
