A-League Round 27 (12/02 to 14/02)

Wellington Phoenix v Central Coast
Newcastle Jets v Adelaide United
Perth Glory v Brisbane Roar
Sydney FC v Melbourne Victory
North Queensland v Gold Coast United


Friday, February 12

Wellington Phoenix v Central Coast Mariners

Verdict: 4th placed Wellington will look to secure a home semi-final with a win over 7th placed Central Coast, whose season is already over.
Wellington have not lost at this venue for 14 consecutive matches and are highly favoured to gain 3pts here as Central Coast will perhaps lack the motivation. But, Central Coast have been in good scoring form on their travels, scoring at an average of 2 goals a game in their last 8 away outings. Without any pressure or expectations, I expect Central Coast to express themselves here whereas Wellington will also push for reasons already mentioned. I expect an open encounter here.

Pick: Over 2.25 goals @1.95 (betinternet, 7 units)
Wellington 3 - 0 Central Coast

Saturday, February 13

Perth Glory v Brisbane Roar

Verdict: 5th placed Perth Glory had their fate sealed last night following Wellington's win over Central Coast and Newcastle's defeat against Adelaide United. They will play at Wellington next week in the 1st play-off round. The Roar are already out of the finals race so this is a nothing game in many ways.

Perth's home record has been very solid this season 7-4-1, based around a very solid defence that has only conceded 8 goals. A depleted Glory team went down bravely at Sydney FC last week by a 3-2 scoreline so they will look to get back to winning ways here. Brisbane's season has petered out some what with a form record of 1-1-4 and only 4 goals scored during this period. I feel that Brisbane will find it tough to break down a Glory defence that has kept 6 clean sheets at the ME Bank Stadium this season. Perth striker, Daniel McBreen, is the form striker of the competition so far and is expected to be the main focal point here. I expect Perth to get back to winning ways here against an out of form Brisbane team with holidays on their minds.

Pick: Perth -0.5AH @1.88 (5dimes, 10 units)
Perth Glory 2 - 0 Brisbane Roar