The A-League is back for a frantic month of football action to crown a champion for the 2019-20 season. There’s a huge amount at stake as Melbourne City face Adelaide United on Tuesday.
A-League Tips – Melbourne City FC V Adelaide United
History: Played 32: Adelaide 13 V Melbourne City 11 (8 Draws)
Last meeting: February 1, 2020: Adelaide 3 d Melbourne City 1 at Coopers Stadium
Final Thoughts: Melbourne City are aiming to lock down second spot, while Adelaide United’s place in the finals could hinge on getting a win in their last game.
City FC boast a two-point lead over Wellington and have a game in hand. A victory here will guarantee they finish second; a draw would also probably be enough.
Melbourne City have played just once since the restart, upsetting Sydney FC 2-0 via second-half goals to Craig Noone and Jamie Maclaren.
Sixth-placed Adelaide are just two points in front of Western United, who have three matches remaining. But their form since the A-League’s resumption – exclusively against finals-bound teams – has been outstanding.
The Reds beat Brisbane (1-0), drew with Wellington (1-1), overwhelmed Perth (5-3) and held Sydney to a draw (1-1). Norwegian striker Kristian Ospeth scored in three of those matches.
Melbourne City won the teams’ initial clash this season. Maclaren’s quick-fire brace in the first half powered them to a 2-1 win at AAMI Park in Week 2.
Adelaide broke an eight-match winless run against City with a 3-1 result in Week 17. Ben Halloran scored two goals in the first half for the Reds.
Melbourne City have lost Scott Jamieson, but Rosytn Griffiths is back from quarantine. Adelaide’s injury-hit squad remains unchanged.
City head in as hot favourites, but United’s stellar recent performances and the desperation of their situation are impossible to resist.
Tip: Handicap – Adelaide +1 @ $1.91
