I always try to be optimistic but I do have a bad feeling about this game.
Central Coast have had the edge on us for at least the past 3 or so seasons and they haven't really been quite as good as they are this year - they are on a roll at the moment. They are probably one of the most lethal on attack and have further bolstered their defence with the addition of Kaltak who has been nothing short of incredible for them - likely the best centre back in the A-League I would say. Roll all this into the fact that the Nix have a habit of switching off for periods of the game (we saw this in our last game against them) and I think we could get hurt with some electrifying counter attack football.
That being said, if we can pull off a win against these guys it basically shows that we are a genuine title hope in my opinion. Lets go boys!
CCM are due for a slip. They have been playing really well but it rarely lasts for long periods. As much as they are second right now I have my doubts that they will be there for too long.
CCM are due for a slip. They have been playing really well but it rarely lasts for long periods. As much as they are second right now I have my doubts that they will be there for too long.
Not sure I agree with that. Of course they may have the odd poor result here and there but they are a very good team with a heap of attacking talent plus excellent squad balance and depth. I can't see the bottom dropping out of their season.
Could depend if they sell anyone this window. That's what they have often done to survive.
Though I expect they got a nice fee for selling Kuol to Newcastle United. But they have a number of young Aussies like Silvera, Ruhs, Steele, Triantis, Farrell, Nisbett, Balard who will be on the radar of other clubs.
I dont have anythign statsitical to back my theory up here, it's more of a feeling that every season for the last few they've done well to a point and then drop away closer to the end of the season - it may be that they lose some of their stars in transfers and their youth struggle. It's their model to use youth and has built a good development of Aussie kids.
I dont have anythign statsitical to back my theory up here, it's more of a feeling that every season for the last few they've done well to a point and then drop away closer to the end of the season - it may be that they lose some of their stars in transfers and their youth struggle. It's their model to use youth and has built a good development of Aussie kids.
Having followed this team for a while now, gut feeling is about as useful for predictions as stats.
Gotta focus on keeping Cummings out of the game which is easier said than done but he's their most prolific attacker by far with Kuol now gone. I think it'll be a great game going with a 3-2 win for us but could easily see it being the other way.
Could depend if they sell anyone this window. That's what they have often done to survive.
Though I expect they got a nice fee for selling Kuol to Newcastle United. But they have a number of young Aussies like Silvera, Ruhs, Steele, Triantis, Farrell, Nisbett, Balard who will be on the radar of other clubs.
They got bought by the guy who owns the largest gym chain in Australia, they've got more money this year than when Charlesworth was the owner.
I watched extended highlights of the CCM game against Macarthur. They were lively and confident, and were all over the Bulls in the first half. It was a more even game in the second half, but CCM still looked like they might have scored more if they tried harder late in the game. Kurto played as an extra outfield player for the Bulls for the last few minutes, but the CCM defense was solid.
Will be at work for this one, but will hopefully find points where I can tune in.
Zawada v Kaltak should be an absolute fascinating watch. Form CB of the league, and an imposing, quick and athletic presence at that, up against our own Polish battler who doesn't mind the rough and tumble of the physical side of the game and has scored in 5 of our past 7.
Should be a cracker - I'm going to have to back it in for a 2-2 draw. Hopefully a nice big crowd in attendance for this one too.
I wonder how much Ufuk's system is helping Zavada. He's said that he's always been a loan striker and it's taken him time to adjust to being a wider player playing as part of a striking pair. Having more attacking players up there with him is bound to free up space and give him more opportunities.
Game day, Fire the hell up fans. I'll be there in spirit and mean while running extremely short staffed at work. Sharke happens. Also good luck to the ladies, I hope you both get3 points today and make it a great day. Kind of a shame that this double header wasn't tomorrow - Wellington Anniversary day. and I think it's the Chinese New Year??
This is gonna be a test of the keepers today, we have the two best keepers in the league this season opposing each other.
CCM are playing a great style of footy but can they handle a Sail who is firing and is backon all cylinders, a midfield with Rufer owning and dominating the space (never thought I'd be saying that) and an attack of Kraev, Ball, Kosta and Zawada who are scoring for fun!
