The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 1 side return to Wanderers Football Park on Saturday as they take on Sydney United 58 in what shapes up to be an exciting clash.
The Wanderers will look to bounce back from a disappointing defeat against the Sutherland Sharks when they return home to take on Sydney United on Saturday afternoon.
Sydney United are coming off a 1-0 win against Manly United following another Mason Wells goal in the first half, as the attacker continued his goalscoring form following a strong performance in the Australia Cup the week prior.
The Wanderers on the other hand, failed to claw back a 2-0 half time deficit, as a Petratos brace saw them go down 3-1 at Seymour Shaw for their first defeat in five games.
The last time the two sides faced off, Sydney United walked away 2-0 victors in a close affair that saw the Wanderers rue their missed chances in an inspirational yet disappointing performance against one of the league’s most potent sides.
The Wanderers have vastly improved since the opening rounds, and look a much more potent outfit as they have begun to create separation from the bottom of the table. Sydney United, while having a great run of form, have yet to string together a run of consistent performances, often having to fight off teams in close wins over the last four weeks.
The Key Decider: Mason Wells v Awan Lual
Over the last month, both sides’ attacking players have been the centre of their great run of form. Sydney United’s Mason Wells and Wanderers Forward Awan Lual have both scored three goals in their last three appearances.
Lual’s game has vastly improved as his potency in front of goal has gone up another level since the opening rounds. His first touch and composure in crucial moments have improved, and this has seen his goalscoring tally increase as well. His sheer size and height have proven to be difficult to control for opposition defences, and the Sydney United defence will have a tough task on their hands containing the young striker if he is to continue this fine form.
Mason Wells’ form has breathed new life into Sydney United’s season, as the Left Winger has three league goals in the last four games, as well as a crucial Australia Cup winner against Granville Rage. The technical winger has caused trouble for defences in the last month, and following words of appraisal from Head Coach Ante Juric, he has taken his game to an even higher level in the two weeks.
Wells’ form has seen Sydney United move into the top six, sitting five points clear of seventh spot as the side look to reaffirm their position as one of the competition heavyweights.
If either one of these young attackers are to play to their potential on Saturday, it could spell trouble for the opposition as we have seen this season that both teams are able to capitalise on spells of momentum when given the chance.
Expect a fiery clash, with the potential of a high-scoring affair if both sides bring their shooting boots on the day.
NPL NSW Round 19
Western Sydney Wanderers FC v Sydney United 58 FC
Saturday 14th of June, 3:00pm
Wanderers Football Park
