The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 1 side take on St George City FA in what shapes to be a must win clash for both sides if they are to remain in touch with their season aspirations.
Two teams, two different season aspirations, and three very important points are at stake on Saturday when St George City visit Wanderers Football Park.
The Western Sydney Wanderers secured a crucial point with a scoreless draw against Rockdale Ilinden last weekend, leaving just two points separating the bottom four teams. The Wanderers’ hopes of remaining in the competition next season will be put to the test over the coming weeks, culminating in their final round clash with the Mariners Academy, a game that is increasingly shaping up to be the decisive relegation battle.
St George City walked away 1-0 victors against their crosstown rival, Sutherland Sharks. Marc McNulty bagged yet another goal, as the Scottish international continued with his end of season form. The win sees the side climb within three points of sixth place, as four teams vie for the remaining finals position.
The last time these two sides met, St George City edged out a 1-0 victory in a closely contested match played in wet weather. A miscommunication between the goalkeeper and defence handed St George the winning goal, despite the rest of the game being a fairly even contest.
The Key Decider: Marc McNulty
The former Scottish international entered the competition with high expectations, but his early-season form left fans questioning whether he could recapture the level that earned him the signing. However, recent performances have silenced doubters, with both his form and the team’s results improving, clear signs that the Scotsman is now the heartbeat of the side.
The striker has scored nine goals in nine games and will be eager to add to that tally when he takes the field on Saturday. The Wanderers’ defence will need to stay alert, as his experience has often seen him in the right place at the right time, leaving defenders questioning what went wrong.
The Wanderers defence accomplished something few have done this season, which is keep Alec Urosevski out of the back of the net, the question lies of whether they can do the same with McNulty.
Expect an enthralling clash between two sides with completely different aspirations, although the goal on the night remains the same, take all three points home in any way possible.
NPL NSW Round 27
Western Sydney Wanderers FC v St George City FA
Saturday 9th of August, 5:00pm
Wanderers Football Park
