THEY SAID IT: “We created enough chances to win two games today” – Wellington coach Ufuk Talay after raining 20 shots on Melbourne City only to lose 3-1 to the ladder leaders. Jamie Maclaren scored a second-half double for City, continuing his streak of scoring in every game this season.
MAN OF THE WEEK: A shared prize for two Mariners. Jason Cummins scored a double in as Central Coast downed Melbourne Victory 2-1, denied his hat-trick only by an offside flag. And it’s goodbye to Garang Kuol, who was given a standing ovation by Mariners fans in Gosford after coming off in his last ALM game before joining English giants Newcastle United.
TALKING POINT: The transfer window opens January 11 but some clubs are already eyeing off moves. Brisbane coach Warren Moon confirmed the Roar are already deep in discussions with potential replacements for departed striker Charlie Austin. Melbourne City say they won’t be a part of it but s urely there would be interest in Jamie Maclaren or others. Coach Rado Vidosic says his striker is happy in Melbourne.
STAT ATTACK: The Phoenix look the goods going forward – they’re the league’s third-highest scorers – but are stuck in ninth because they can’t keep a clean sheet. They’ve conceded in 14 straight ALM matches dating back to April.
BEAT THAT: Oliver Bozanic’s worldie was the pick of Western Sydney’s rout of Macarthur. Controlling the ball with his right foot, Bozanic then lifted a volley past Filip Kurto with his left to help Marko Rudan’s side to a 4-0 battering of the Bulls.
UNDER PRESSURE: Tony Popovic’s Victory is stuck in 11th after losing to the Mariners and despite the turmoil not of his doing surrounding his club, it’s not tenable for the ALM giants. Revelations this week the club is under severe financial strain have unveiled fresh strains.
UP NEXT: All eyes return to AAMI Park when Victory host Brisbane Roar for their first home match s ince the disgrace of the Christmas derby on Friday ni ght. The pick of the fixtures is also at the ground, with a gra nd final rematch between high-flying City and struggling champions Western United. Central Coast can continue their strong form when Adelaide United visit.
Source: AAP