Central Coast Mariners vs Melbourne Victory: Round 5 Preview

After a couple games at home, Melbourne heads to Gosford this weekend for an away game against the Central Coast Mariners.

While the news this week has been focused on Ney Fabiano’s 9-match ban, there is good news too. Jose Luis Lopez returns to the squad, as does Michael Thwaite, who has recovered from his injury. With Fabiano out of the picture, Tom Pondeljak is an excellent option to come into the squad.

The Central Coast Mariners have had a mixed season so far, with just one win, one loss and two draws. Before their round 3 clash against the Queensland Roar, they looked like a team in trouble. But that game proved that they remain a potent threat.

With Sydney and Adelaide playing each other earlier on Saturday night, this will be a critical round. A win for Melbourne will give them an even stronger lead, while a loss could see them drop from the top of the table.

My tips for the weekend:

• Queensland Roar to beat Newcastle Jets. Both of these teams have given mixed performances over the past couple rounds, but Queensland look like the stronger side to me.
• Sydney FC to draw with Adelaide United. If my tip happens to turn out right, Adelaide will be very pleased with the point. Although elated after their mid-week draw in Japan, they have to be getting tired.
• Central Coast Mariners to be outplayed and outscored by Melbourne Victory. I‘m tipping a two-goal win this weekend. I’ve had it right the last two weeks, so here’s hoping for a hattrick.
• Perth Glory to beat Wellington Phoenix. Two teams still in search for their first win of the season. Perth seem to be the livelier side, so I’m tipping a home win for them.