Newcastle Jets - Macarthur FC

The start to the season has been a rocky one for most teams in Australia, but one team that has managed to keep the scoring going is the Newcastle Jets. Regardless of the opposition they have faced, the Jets have found their way to the finish line, and now everything is in place for them to do it again against a tired away team. 

Newcastle Jets – Home in safe surroundings 

With twelve points, the Jets are right in the middle of the table, just above Macarthur, who also have twelve points – but with a weaker goal difference. In my opinion, the quality of the Jets squad is still significant enough that this could end in a home win. 

Macarthur FC – Defensively strong 

Macarthur have certainly taken their points, but these have largely come through marginal wins and draws. They have become better at closing down the back, there is little doubt about that, but a Jets team at home can quickly become too tough a task. 

Summary  

Looking at the statistics and history this season, this smells of a more locked and boring match than we usually associate with the A-League. Therefore, if you want to find value in the betting market, you have to move a little outside your comfort zone. In this case, it points towards a marking game, despite the league normally offering a lot of action. 

Game selection 

I expect an even game – even more even than the bookies suggest. A defensively organised Macarthur team will probably lie low, receive and hope for a few good counter-attacking opportunities. However, I think they will fall short when 90 minutes are played. A marking game on the home team appears to be the most sensible choice, both because Macarthur will probably lock the game up, but also because I have great faith that the Jets will take all three points at home. 

Australia at: 09:35: Newcastle Jets – Macarthur FC: Home win (1.92)