BY BOZZA & SPYRO
Melbourne Victory v Western Sydney Wanderers
Monday, 6 November 2017
Etihad Stadium, Melbourne
Kick-Off: 7.50 PM (AEDST)
Overview:
After playing off for last years Championship, the Melbourne Victory have just two points for their troubles in the first four games of 2017/18. The Wanderers, their Cup Eve opponents, come to Etihad Stadium undefeated and full of confidence.
Despite Melbourne’s perilous position, it could be argued that there is reason for optimism given the opportunities they have created in the opening month.
Needless to say that if they do not turn their situation, and soon, the season will have gotten away from the Victory before it has even truly started. Given the fact that they failed to qualify for the finals on the two previous occasions they started as poorly, there is an argument to suggest it already has passed them by.
Recent Meetings:
The Victory are undefeated in their last five matches against the Wanderers and haven’t conceded a goal in over 360 minutes. Their dominance over the recent head to head extends through the last eleven matches, with the Victory tasting defeat just once in the period.
Selected Teams:
Player to Watch – Leroy George
The former Dutch Junior International has been an exciting acquisition for Victory since joining the club this season. His attacking potency was on full show against Central Coast win a sensational effort from a free kick helping Melbourne salvage a draw.
Forced to leave the ground late in the match with an apparent hamstring injury there were grave concerns for his availability for Cup Eve. With Kosta Barbarouses, James Troisi and Besart Berisha all unavailable, it must have been a great relief when he was declared fit to play.
Leading the club in each attacking statistical measurement, he has fast become an important cog in the Victory squad. Melbourne’s chances of continuing their impressive recent form against the Wanderers will rely heavily on George producing his best form.
Predictions:
The Sportress 