Hyundai A1 League: Perth Glory vs. Western United Preview, Odds and Prediction

Both Perth Glory and Western Untied are in a difficult situation, currently sitting at the fifth and sixth place in the Hyundai A1 League. Two playoff contenders are clashing this Monday in an extremely important game, which might have long-term effects on the standings. We might say that Glory is in a bit better position, but still, they can’t afford to lose this matchup. Get ready for a big battle at HBF Park in Perth.

Preview

Perth Glory (-188) is on a cold streak, during which they couldn’t post a win for five straight games, the latest four of them in the A1 League. Tony Popovich’s side started this negative trend losing against FC Tokyo in the Asian Champions League, and after that posted two more defeats and two draws. The most recent match was vs. Sydney FC, which ended without goals. Games at HBF Park are mostly efficient, and the previous five all ended with over 2.5 goals. Furthermore, just one saw less than four hits, and all of them concluded with Both Teams to Score, which tells a lot about the mentality of Glory once playing in front of their own fans.

Western United (+475) comes in this one as a massive underdog, even though they defeated their last two rivals, scoring 11 goals combined. At first, they demolished CC Mariners with 6-2, and after that rolled over Adelaide United on the road with 1-5. It was a perfect way to bounce back after a terrible period during which they posted just one win in eight games, having six defeats during that interval. However, the oddsmakers probably think that these two results are only a temporary spark. In general, this might be the turning point of the season for United, who would strengthen its position in the playoff race and provide a three-point advantage over Adelaide United, whom they demolished so ruthlessly two weeks ago.

Head to Head Games

These two sides played just one match before, and it was on 19th October. The result was 1-1, with Glory dominating throughout the entire event. Hosts got the lead in the 49th minute through Panagiotis Kone, and the equalizer came in the 76th through Kristian Popovic. We need to say Perth played better, but that they allowed too many counter-attacks, which could cost them dearly.

Prediction

Judging by the way Western United plays recently, this should be a match with a lot of goals. We are not sure if coach Mark Rudan changed something in the tactics or simply boosted the morale of his players, but United plays excellent upfront. Meanwhile, Glory knows nothing but to attack at home, and you could see that while analyzing all the matches played there. Also, the situation in the standings is indicating that we might see an open contest. As soon as one side scores, be sure that the other would try to respond, no matter the cost. The mentality of these two crews is demands offense, and that is something which is an excellent thing for us bettors. Over 2.5 goals, $ BTTS is at +100, which is perfect. Meanwhile, for those who like to risk a bit more, Over 1.5 goals in the first halftime sit at +140, and that would be our suggestion for them.