The Western Sydney Wanderers FNSW League One side will be searching for a fifth victory in a row and the chance to claim top spot when they face NWS Spirit at Christie Park on Saturday.
With the top two teams also facing off, a victory for the third placed Wanderers and a draw between St George City and the Central Coast Mariners would see the boys in Red and Black leapfrog both sides on the ladder.
It will be no easy feat to attain victory, though, as they are coming up against one of the form sides in the competition.
After an inconsistent start to the season, Spirit – like the Wanderers – have won their last four games and sit on the cusp of the top four.
Last time out, they had to do it the hard way; down to 10 men, an 86th minute winner from Michael Konestabo helped them to a crucial 2-1 win away against Mounties Wanderers.
The man who was sent off, however, was their captain Grant Cornwell, and they will have a tough time replacing the leadership he brings in the middle of the park.
The Wanderers were at their brilliant attacking best last round, scoring five goals in 33 first half minutes on their way to a resounding 7-1 victory.
Jarrad Carluccio and Nectar Triantis were the unlikely pair that netted braces, whilst George Antonis also impressed with a goal and outstanding work in making the midfield tick.
Tomi Vidovic will be hoping that imperious centre-back Triantis will be at his best in both boxes, as a third clean sheet of the season would go a long way to securing a vital victory.
When these two sides met on the opening night of the season, it was the Wanderers who came away with a 3-0 victory thanks largely to a Jordi Swibel double; given the form of both sides, it is highly likely we will see a much tighter contest under the lights of Christie Park.
NWS Spirit FC vs Western Sydney Wanderers FC
Saturday 28 May 2022, 7:30pm
Christie Park
