Sydney FC caught up with Michael Lynch from The Age, to dissect tonight’s opponents, Melbourne Heart.

Sydney FC caught up with Michael Lynch from The Age, to dissect tonight’s opponents, Melbourne Heart.

1. The Heart sit on the bottom of the table, is their ladder position a true indication of how they’re playing?

They say the league table never lies. But Heart has been unlucky, throwing away a two goal lead against the Mariners being its most disappointing result. Should have got something out of the game against Wanderers last week, and was good for a half at least in Brisbane.

2. Despite defeat in their last two matches, coach John Aloisi has praised his teams performances, why is he so confident?

All coaches generally sound positive, so Aloisi is no exception. He is obviously trying to boost his players confidence, but there is some truth in what he is saying. Heart has played well in patches and created numerous opportunities, it just hasn’t been able to put away opponents when it should have.

3. Harry Kewell is a big name absentee for the Heart, how is their injury list apart from him?

Kewell won’t be ready for at least another week. Key midfielder Orlando Engelaar, the Dutch international, broke his leg in pre season and won’t be back until next year. Paddy Kisnorbo sustained an injury in Perth, but could return next week. Argentinian utility Jonatan Germano has been missing all season.

4. The Heart made a swathe of changes to their list over the off-season, how have their new recruits performed in the opening 5 rounds?

Michael Mifsud has looked sharp and dangerous in his three appearances, having missed the first two matches due to international commitments. Iain Ramsay has been in and out of the side. Paddy Kisnorbo did well until his injury. Rob Wielaert has been a very good addition at the back. Massimo Murdocca does what he has always done. Worked hard and put in an good shift. Harry Kewell has mainly been injured, but showed glimpses in his solitary appearance.

5. Which players will be causing Sydney FC the most problems this week?

Mifsud, Golgol Mehbratu if he is in the mood _ his pace and strength make him a real handful if he is on song _ and Nick Kalmar, who is expected to be in from the start, is dangerous from midfield. David Williams can cause problems if things click.

6. Which Sydney FC players will give Melbourne Heart headaches this week?

Alessandro Del Piero, obviously, is the main concern. His ability to orchestrate things from an attacking midfield position, find a pass or win free kicks is something Heart will be well aware of. Richie Garcia will surely want to prove a point on his return to AAMI.

7. How do you envisage the match being played out tactically?

Heart will have to make the running. They will hit their wide men and try to get in behind Sydney while also trying to find Mifsud in the penalty area as he is good in tight spaces. Sydney is likely to be most dangerous on the break if they can manage a quick transition.

8. Who wins and why?

I think Heart is due a win, and maybe this will be the game.

Any views displayed in this article are those of the interviewee and do not represent those of Sydney FC.

BE THERE FOR THE TRANS TASMAN BATTLE: Sydney FC face Wellington Phoenix in a repeat of last season-s 7-1 fixture at Allianz Stadium on Saturday 23rd November. The Sky Blues will be hoping for more of the same and another four goals from Alessandro Del Piero wouldn-t go a miss, so make sure you don-t miss out!! Get your tickets from Ticketek TODAY and make a day of it!!! Kick off at 5.30pm.