Wellington Phoenix
- Wellington Phoenix have lost 4 of their last 5 A-League matches, including back-to-back defeats to Auckland FC and Newcastle Jets.
- Giancarlo Italiano is a pragmatic coach that sets up his team in the most appropriate way for the opponent, usually sitting deep and looking to hit on the counter with numbers over the top through the wide channels.
- Wellington have failed to win either of their last 2 home games against the Mariners and look unlikely to overturn that trend here.
Central Coast Mariners
- Central Coast Mariners have also hit a rough patch, losing 3 of their last 5 league games with consecutive home defeats to Sydney FC and Auckland FC.
- Warren Moon has inherited a side that is built for pressing, possession and playing vertically to create chances and the results so far suggest they are still adapting to his style.
- Mariners have won one of their three away games this term, scoring three and conceding four, but they have split their last two away games and may have the confidence to take something from Sky Stadium on Sunday.
Head-to-Head
- These teams have shared one win apiece and three draws in the last five A-League meetings.
- The most recent clash, just six weeks ago in Gosford, ended 1-1.
Key Players
- Ifeanyi Eze is Phoenix’s most creative player and has four A-League goals in eight matches.
- Alfie McCalmont offers more of a threat for the visitors with two goals from a similar role - although he is often the spark for their attacks when he makes his runs late.
Betting Insights
With both sides having a tendency to leak goals, we’re going for Over 2.5 at 1.83 as the best alternative to the moneyline wagers in this game.
Prediction
- This game looks like following a similar course to recent encounters between these clubs.
- There is a slight home advantage for the Kiwis who are marginal favorites at 2.18.
- Mariners are more likely to surprise.
