Both Sydney FC and the Central Coast Mariners are littered with talent and this weekend’s clash will see a number of them go head-to-head at Allianz Stadium.
Let’s take a look at some of the key match ups across the park in what is set to be an exciting clash.
Joe Lolley v Jacob Farrell
Sydney FC’s Joe Lolley has set the league alight since his arrival from Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. He is a quick footed right sided winger who loves to take on his man and cut inside onto his left foot, creating chances for others or having an effort at goal. Last week he provided an assist for Adam Le Fondre’s winner in the Big Blue, adding onto his goal in Perth two weeks prior. His opponent will be young Jacob Farrell.
Farrell arrived at the Mariners from their Academy and made his debut last season, going on to play almost every minute for Nick Montgomery. Despite being one of the youngest in the team, the left back has cemented his spot in the side and often leads the league in fouls gained, demonstrating his excellence in body positioning. He often gets forward contributing to the attack so will have to be on his guard for Joe Lolley’s counter attacking prowess.
Luke Brattan Vs Josh Nisbet
The heart of the midfield will be a contest on Saturday afternoon and both Luke Brattan and Josh Nisbet know that they need to dominate the ball if their side is to walk away with the three points. Luke Brattan returned this season following a long layoff due to a torn ACL. Since returning he has been back to his best, marshalling troops in the midfield, and cleaning up any spare balls. Brattan has an amazing range of passing and has already contributed to goals on more than one occasion.
Josh Nisbet from the Mariners may well be one of the smallest players in world football. Standing at just 5 foot 2 or 160cm, people often underestimate the midfielder, but at their own peril. Nisbet is very key in the midfield for Montgomery and he may not get on the scoresheet very often but he contributes in other ways with his defensive cover and speed on and off the ball. Expect Nisbet to be buzzing around the midfield as usual on Saturday night.
Alex Wilkinson vs Jason Cummings
Since Alex Wilkinson’s arrival back into the team, he has added a new dimension of stability to Corica’s side as they have leaked goals in his absence. The 38 year old may be one of the older players on the park this Saturday but he makes up for it with positioning and expertise. With 350 Isuzu UTE A-League games under his belt, Wilkinson knows where to be at what time and he brings great leadership to the Sky Blues throughout the 90 minutes. His task on Saturday will be to mark the illusive Jason Cummings.
Cummings is the flamboyant showman of the Central Coast Mariners and with his nick-name, the Scot turned Australian has fallen in love with his new home. He has been at the Mariners for a year now and since then, has been capped for the Socceroos, as well as making a late surge for the Golden Boot. Cummings knows his way around a penalty box, netting eight times already this season and he will be looking to do the same this weekend against the Sky Blues when he comes up against Alex Wilkinson.
All over the park there will be battles and you can expect that this game will bring goals and entertainment as both teams look to maintain or improve their positions on the table.
Match Details
Sydney FC v Central Coast Mariners
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 15
Saturday 4th February 2023
Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Kick Off: 5pm AEDT
Gates Open: 2:00pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
Tickets: Click Here
