Isuzu UTE A-League preview: Adelaide v Victory

Match details

Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory
Coopers Stadium, Adelaide
Saturday, April 2, 2022
Kick-off: 7.45pm AEDT
Broadcast: Paramount+, Network 10

Preview

Melbourne Victory faces rival Adelaide United in an important Isuzu UTE A-League clash at Coopers Stadium on Saturday.

Victory has drawn four consecutive league matches 1-1, including Sunday’s result against the Western Sydney Wanderers at AAMI Park.

Jason Davidson’s excellent finish gave Victory a stoppage-time lead, but the Wanderers equalised in the final moments through Steven Ugarkovic’s penalty.

The goals came after Victory defender Roderick Miranda was sent off late in the second half for a sliding challenge.

Davidson’s goal was his first in the Isuzu UTE A-League for Victory and added to his tremendous free-kick in the Australia Cup final.

The draw against Western Sydney came after Victory again squandered numerous chances to take a strong lead.

Victory will be without Roderick and goalkeeper Matt Acton (foot) for the trip to Adelaide as it begins a run of eight games in April.

However, Victory is set to welcome back newly capped Socceroos Nick D’Agostino and Ben Folami, plus defender Matt Spiranovic.

With nine regular-season games left to play, Victory is sixth on the table, but has matches in hand, including on third-placed Adelaide.

Player in focus

Davidson has enjoyed a strong first season in Victory colours. The left-back has been consistent throughout 2021/22 and scored a fine goal against the Wanderers.

Last time

Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 Round 9
Melbourne Victory 1-1 Adelaide United
Saturday, January 8, 2022
AAMI Park, Melbourne

It was a dramatic finish at AAMI Park when the teams met in January.

D’Agostino’s stunning opener was cancelled out in the 91st minute by Craig Goodwin before Isaias was sent off.

Head to head

Round 9, 2021/22: Victory 1-1 Adelaide at AAMI Park
Quarter Final, 2021 Australia Cup: Adelaide 1-2 Victory at Coopers Stadium
Round 4, 2021/22: Adelaide 1-2 Victory at Coopers Stadium
Round 22, 2020/21: Victory 0-1 Adelaide at AAMI Park
Round 12, 2020/21: Victory 1-3 Adelaide at Marvel Stadium