2015/16 W-League: Round 13 Preview

With two rounds to go, it is all about the finals race in the W-League this weekend. Four teams are vying for just two spots with this weekend’s big match up vital.

SYDNEY FC v NEWCASTLE JETS

Saturday 9 January 2016 | ANZ Stadium, Sydney | Local kick-off: 2pm | Double Header

* Watch all the action Live from 2.00pm nationally on Fox Sports (Channel 505), or ABC TV. Or catch-up on ABC iView.

While Sydney FC enjoyed the weekend’s bye last week, the Newcastle Jets were in action against the bottom placed Melbourne Victory.

As it has turned out for most of the season, teams have had little regard for ladder placings with the Victory scoring early and then withstanding a Jets surge to down Newcastle 1-0.

What to watch for: If recent encounters between these two sides are any indicator, it is set to be a tight and tense match.

Both teams have lost two key players in the full back role with Sydney’s Amy Harrison (ACL) and Newcastle’s Georgia Yeoman-Dale (dislocated shoulder) driving forces in initiating and joining in attacks. Both have provided great width and with their losses, this match could be played out more centrally.

If that is the case, the Jets could be set to have the advantage with their midfield trio the more creative this season. In the end it comes down to goals and with Newcastle struggling to find the scoreboard of late, Sydney’s experienced front third could prove the decider.

Player to watch: It took a while to get on the scoreboard but Sydney FC forward Jasmyne Spencer has been in good recent form. Playing as a lone striker for most of the season, the pacy American has benefited from more support in recent weeks with her ability to hold up the ball and play in teammates resulting in

Head to Head: Played 14 | 8 wins (SYD) | 3 wins (NEW) | 3 Draws

BRISBANE ROAR v MELBOURNE VICTORY

Sunday 10 January 2016 | Broadbeach United Soccer Club, Gold Coast | Local kick-off: 2.30pm (3.30pm AEDT)

With their finals chances on the line, a strong first half performance saw Brisbane Roar notch up a 3-0 win over finals rivals Adelaide United on the road.

While for Melbourne Victory, another good performance on the road saw them record just their second win of the season with PFA December Player of the Month nominee Natasha Dowie doing the damage.

What to watch for: After going through a period of a leaky defence, Brisbane Roar have tightened things up at the back while midfield has taken control (or held their own) in the last couple of matches. The battle between Katrina Gorry and Christine Nairn could decide this one with both midfielders possessing the ability to win the ball and find their experienced strikers. Whoever does it better will set their team up for a much needed win.

Player to watch: While Gorry has been at the heart of Brisbane’s resurgence, forward Emily Gielnik has also been instrumental.

Gielnik’s play of late has seen her take on roles as the target striker but also, surprisingly, on the wing with the results speaking for themselves. This fitter, stronger and more creative version of Gielnik has seen other players like Tameka Butt, Gabe Marzano and Amy Chapman benefit.

Head to Head: Played 14 | 8 wins (BRI) | 2 wins (MVC) | 4 Draws

CANBERRA UNITED v WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS

Sunday 10 January 2016 | McKellar Park, Canberra | Local kick-off: 4pm

A controlled Canberra United worked their way into the match against Perth Glory before taking over and claiming a 2-0 win. The victory also saw the defending champions seal a finals berth for a seventh season.

For the Wanderers, it was their turn to face the Melbourne City juggernaut and suffered a 4-0 loss, the average result against City this season.

What to watch for: This match is about which Western Sydney side turns up. While Canberra have been remarkably consistent (after an early season stumble), the Wanderers performances have been more up and down.

At their best, using their fullbacks and wingers, controlling the centre of the park, the Wanderers are a dangerous side that can cause an upset. However, the question is whether they can do so for a full 90 minute performance against a Canberra team that is well balanced, controlled and clinical.

Player to watch: An Adelaide transplant, Jenna McCormick has been one of the signings of the season for any club. Initially coming in as a right back, McCormick’s pace and game smarts have seen Rae Dower push her further up the pitch with great success.

A late bloomer, the 21 year old’s versatility was on display last week as she partnered Ellie Brush in the heart of defence helping Canberra record a 4^th clean sheet in a row. A newcomer, McCormick has all but cemented a spot in the Canberra starting XI.

Head to Head: Played 6 | 4 wins CBR | 0 wins (WSW) | 2 Draws

PERTH GLORY v ADELAIDE UNITED

Sunday 10 January 2016 | Ashfield Reserve, Perth | Local kick-off: 4pm (7pm AEDT)

Unlike last season, Perth Glory have had struggles at home and last round, despite a good start, it continued with a 2-0 loss to Canberra United.

Adelaide United too suffered a loss at home with the Lady Reds again punished for not taking their chances. This time it was Brisbane Roar, who reversed the early season fixture, who scored 3 goals in quick succession to join the battle for the Top 4.

Player to watch: It’s been a much rougher season for the newly deposed premiers Perth Glory. With the team changes, late season injuries one player who has remained relatively consistent is reining W-League Goalkeeper of the Year, Mackenzie Arnold.

Last weekend Arnold again pulled out save after save to keep the home side in the game against Canberra United. Her shot stopping ability and pro-active goalkeeping style was again on display and if Glory are going to have even a small sniff of the finals, the 21 year old will need to be in top form again.

Head to Head: Played 13| 10 wins (PER) | 2 wins (ADL) | 1 Draw

Bye: Melbourne City