Auckland FC get the benefit of hosting this elimination final, but it’s certainly not where they would have wanted to be, given their successes this season.
After dipping in form during the home stretch, it’s now do or die for the Black Knights.
They host the three-time champions, Melbourne City, who come into this one with four wins and one loss in their last five games. That one loss though… against Adelaide United last week.
On the other hand, Auckland have not seen a win in their last five, but Steve Corica’s men will be eager to change that narrative.
One of those players will be Jesse Randall, who has had a stellar season but will bid farewell to the club once the season is done. He’ll be a man on a mission as he’ll want to extend his farewell tour as long as possible. Expect him to be right in the mix and launch a few shots towards City’s goal.
Go Media has proven to be a tough place for City to win at; however, Nathaniel Atkinson, Andrew Nabbout and Ryan Teague come in to bolster their squad.
It’s going to be a cagey affair, and I can see extra time being needed to decide this one.
Best: Match Result: Draw @ $3.30
Value: Jesse Randall To Score or Assist, Both Teams to Score & Auckland FC Win or Draw @ $4.50
Goalscorer: Medin Memeti (First, $9.00, Anytime, $4.00)
SGM: Auckland FC to Qualify, Jesse Randall 1+ Shots on Target & Guillermo May to Score or Assist @ $4.20