3 minute read
Central Coast Mariners need just one point against Adelaide United on Wednesday night to win the A-League minor premiership.
Wellington Phoenix sit one point clear at the top of the ladder, but the Mariners have a game in hand and a superior goal-difference.
It means a draw on home soil against the Reds would be enough to get the job done, before they can then turn their attention to the finals series.
However, the Mariners will be keen to pick up all three points in a convincing fashion to keep the feel-good factor within the club.
Adelaide will be playing for pride following a disappointing season by their standards, and they will be determined to end the season on a high.
It means there is still all to play for in the final game of the regular A-League season.
. What: Central Coast Mariners v Adelaide United
. Where: Industree Group Stadium, Sydney
. When: 19:00 (AEST), Wednesday 1st May 2024
. How to watch: Paramount+
. Odds: Central Coast Mariners 1.75, Draw 3.75, Adelaide United 4.33
Mariners in top form
Central Coast are in great form heading into finals after winning the last four games on the bounce, and they will be keen to make it five against the Reds.
The Mariners put themselves within touching distance of the minor premiership with a gritty 3-1 win away at Newcastle Jets at the weekend.
A point is all they need against Adelaide, but they are sure to be pushing for all three.
They have a good record against the Reds when winning five of the last six games against them.
That run includes a 4-0 win at Coopers Stadium in February that was revenge for the 3-0 defeat they suffered at the same venue on the opening day of the season.
The games between these two sides are usually high-scoring, and only one game in the last six has seen under 2.5 goals scored.
Over 2.5 goals in this latest clash can be backed at 1.36, while both teams to score is also available at the same price.
Alou Kalou was on target against the Jets at the weekend and can be backed at 5.50 to grab the first goal of the game, or 2.20 to score at anytime.
Reds look to finish on a high
Adelaide looked on course for a big season after they beat the Mariners 3-0 on the opening day, but it was not to be.
Indeed, the Reds have missed out on finals altogether, which would have been unthinkable at the start of the season.
Even so, they have found a bit of form in the final few weeks of the season, losing just one in the last five games.
Conceding goals continues to be an issue however, and they have let in seven over the last two games.
The Reds drew 3-3 with Western United, before wrapping up a 4-3 win away at Brisbane Roar in the last game they played.
Hiroshi Ibusuki scored a brace in that game to take him to 15 goals for the season.
The strike ace can be backed at 8.50 to grab the first goal of the game, or 3.10 to score at anytime.
Discover more from bet365
Build a bet with Same Game Multi
Head to the bet365 YouTube channel for exclusive football content
What's gambling really costing you? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
