NEWCASTLE JETS v MELBOURNE CITY

Last round saw the Jets put five past Canberra in a win that ensured they would be playing finals football while City had a bye last week but played out a scoreless draw with the Roar the week prior.

This is arguably the most mouth-watering contest of the round. The permutations surrounding this match are many with Newcastle capable of finishing anywhere between second and fourth and City anywhere between third and fifth depending on this game and others.

The Jets have scored the most goals this season while City have the worst shooting accuracy in the league.

Newcastle has flown this season, putting in their best campaign since season one. Conversely City hasn’t reached the expectations many had for them.

They are the second best defensive unit in the league, only behind Brisbane in goals conceded and clean sheets. But have the second worst shot conversion percentage and the worst shooting accuracy.

Can City pull a big performance out of the bag when it needs to or will the Jets get their maiden win over the Melbourne side?  

Player to watch: This situation was made for some Jess Fishlock magic, whether that be a stunning long range shot or a killer through ball to ensure her side secures finals football. Emily van Egmond could be just as important to the Jets’ fate.

Last time they met: City’s best performance of the season saw them beat the Jets 5-2 in Melbourne. A Katie Stengel double was cancelled out by a goal to Kyah Simon and braces to Larissa Crummer and Jess Fishlock.

Head to Head:  Played 4 | 4 wins (MCY) | 0 wins (NEW) | 0 Draws

 

Newcastle Jets

Melbourne City

Team Form:

W (CBR), L (NEW), D (SYD), W (MVC), D (PER) D (MYC), L (MVC), W (PER), W (WSW), L (BRI)

In:

 Ash BROGIAN (promoted), Panayiota PETRATOS (promoted) Jordie TAYLOR (returns from international duty), Emily SHIELDS (returns from injury)

Out:

 Cortnee VINE (TBC) Larissa CRUMMER, Melissa HUDSON

Unavailable:

 Nikola ORGILL (virus - 1 week) NIL