The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 1 side travel to Macedonia Park on Sunday as they look to respond against the undefeated Wollongong Wolves.
The Wanderers will look to capitalize on a courageous performance against NWS Spirit this Sunday when they travel to Macedonia Park to face the Wollongong Wolves.
The Wolves are coming off three consecutive draws, the latest being a one-all draw against Rockdale Ilinden. The Wolves led for eighty four minutes of the game until Alec Urosevski acrobatically equalised in the 88th minute.
The Red & Black delivered their strongest performance of the season, rediscovering their goal-scoring instinct but falling short against elite finishing. Despite three consecutive losses, the Wanderers have shown resilience and steady improvement each week.
The Wollongong Wolves have committed 31 errors leading to shots this season, and with the Wanderers’ ability to press high off the ball, they will look to capitalize on these mistakes and seize any opportunities that arise.
The Wanderers also face their least shots per game opponent of the season this Sunday, meaning that if they play to their possession-heavy best, they are likely to reduce any threat that the Wolves bring.
On the other hand, the majority of Wollongong’s goals have come on the counter attack and getting in behind their opponent’s defences. The Wanderers will want to be wary of their high defensive line and attacking fullbacks as Alex Masciovecchio and Marcus Beattie will look to take advantage of the space in behind.
The Key Matchup: Nicholas Badolato v Nicholas Olsen
Both Olsen and Badolato have stamped their authority in their respective team’s midfield this season as they look to get on the front foot for their teams on Sunday.
Olsen enters this match in fine form, with three goals and an assist in four games. The former Brisbane Roar midfielder will need to be at his opportunistic best if Wollongong hopes to get a result. Operating both in attacking midfield and as a second striker, he has been a constant threat—already surpassing last season’s goal contributions in 25 fewer games.
Badolato has recently stepped up against more experienced and physical midfields, continuing to grow in stature within the NPL NSW competition. His set-piece delivery has been a constant threat, nearly scoring an Olympico last week against NWS Spirit. Additionally, his role as a deep-lying playmaker has been instrumental for the Wanderers, helping break open play and create space for his teammates.
Whichever Nicholas can stake their claim in their respective attacking responsibilities, will likely lead their team to victory.
NPL NSW Round 5
Western Sydney Wanderers FC v Wollongong Wolves FC
Sunday 16th of March, 3:00pm
Macedonia Park
