Isuzu UTE A-League preview: Wanderers v Victory

Match details

Western Sydney Wanderers v Melbourne Victory
CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Wednesday, February 16, 2022
Kick-off: 7.55pm AEDT

Preview

Melbourne Victory’s busy run of Isuzu UTE A-League fixtures continues with a trip to face the Western Sydney Wanderers on Wednesday.

Victory will be in action for the fourth time in 12 days when it lines up against the Wanderers at CommBank Stadium.

After winning the FFA Cup, Victory’s nine-game unbeaten run was ended by the Wellington Phoenix, before a home defeat to the Newcastle Jets followed.

Victory went ahead through Jake Brimmer against the Jets, but decisions went against it in the second half, with captain Josh Brillante sent off.

Brimmer’s goal was his first of the season and capped a fine opening half for Victory at AAMI Park, but defeat followed.

Victory will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways when it takes on the Wanderers.

In a boost, Matt Spiranovic returned and started against the Jets, while Roderick Miranda came on in the second half.

Victory will have a decision to make over Brillante’s replacement, and the Club is also in action again on Saturday at home to the Central Coast Mariners.

After playing 10 games this season, Victory is fifth on 15 points, while the Wanderers are 11th.

Player in focus

Jason Davidson has enjoyed a fine season at left-back. The 30-year-old has started eight of Victory’s 10 matches this campaign and been a consistent performer.

Last time

Isuzu UTE A-League 2020/21 Round 18
Melbourne Victory 5-4 Western Sydney Wanderers
Friday, April 23, 2021
Marvel Stadium, Melbourne

Victory charged into a 5-1 lead when the teams last met.

Ben Folami scored a brace and Brimmer assisted two goals, but Victory had to hold on after a strong finish by the Wanderers.

Head to head

Round 18, 2020/21: Victory 5-4 Wanderers at Marvel Stadium
Round 7, 2020/21: Wanderers 2-0 Victory at CommBank Stadium
Round 27, 2019/20: Wanderers 2-1 Victory at CommBank Stadium
Round 2, 2019/20: Victory 1-2 Wanderers at Marvel Stadium
Round 27, 2018/19: Wanderers 0-1 Victory at Stadium Australia