The Western Sydney Wanderers go into their FNSW League One match against SD Raiders knowing that a positive result can secure promotion to the National Premier Leagues.
With fifth placed Northern Tigers currently nine points behind the ladder leading Wanderers and just three games left to play, a draw or a win for the boys in Red and Black will guarantee a top
four finish and promotion.
And with fierce competition to also secure the minor premiership, there is no shortage of motivation for the Wanderers to continue their winning run this weekend.
The side showed great character to twice come from behind last week against Hakoah; they found themselves 2-1 down at half-time but were able to overpower their opposition with four
unanswered goals in the second half.
Fan favourite Jarrod Carluccio scored a double, with Alessandro Lopane, Alex Badolato and Connor Rose also getting on the scoresheet.
Another positive from the match was Alex Bonetig making his first start for eight games as he made his return from injury.
The Wanderers have scored nine goals in their last two games, and will be hoping their rich vein of attacking form can continue against a side that has the second worst defensive record in the
league.
It has been a difficult season for the Raiders, sitting second last and on a three match losing
streak.
They were competitive in their midweek defeat against Northern Tigers, and in their last victory dispatched of Mounties Wanderers 5-0.
Mark Cindric has been their main attacking threat, with five goals, and they will look to soak up the pressure and hit the Wanderers on the break.
Last time the sides met back in May, the Wanderers came away with a 3-0 victory, with Rose scoring twice and Jakov Malbasa also getting a goal.
Western Sydney Wanderers FC v SD Raiders FC
Saturday 23 July 2022, 7:15pm
Behind-closed-doors
