Go Media Stadium, Auckland
Saturday, April 11th, 5pm
Written by Jonno Ross
Opportunity missed, or opportunity taken? After Newcastle Jets were beaten on Friday night last week, Auckland FC had the chance to close the four-point gap at the summit with a result against Adelaide. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get the win, but the 1-1 draw was enough to close the gap to three points…the title race is still on. Opportunity taken!
This week, we play host to Melbourne Victory. The players, staff and fans have a case of PTSD from the last time the Victory were in town. It was THAT disallowed goal by Logan Rogerson we all remember – did Guillermo May’s cross go over the byline or not?
The argument is still alive today, and it will surely be a talking point between fans as we approach the ‘rematch’ at Go Media Stadium this weekend. It came from the horse’s mouth at a fans/players meet and greet last year. When Guillermo was asked the question of whether the ball went out. His immediate, confident reply was “no way, of course not.” Steve Corica echoed May and told the room that “it still gives me nightmares.”
This weekend will be somewhat of a redemption game for the likes of May, Rogerson and Corica. A match they will deem that nothing but the three points on offer will do.
Auckland FC are in a bit of an injury crisis, heading into this weekend. We will be without Michael Woud (groin injury), Guillermo May (concussion protocol stand down period), Francis de Vries (calf strain), and Jake Brimmer is a ‘maybe’, depending on how his scan on his left calf goes.
No need for panic, we have the depth to fill those gaps, more notably in the goalkeeping department, with our latest signing, Jimmy Hilton, slotting in between the sticks. His debut performance last weekend was one he’ll remember for a long time, after pulling off seven saves to keep his side in the game. AFC have a great eye for quality goalkeepers!
Our last encounter with the Victory was way back at the start of the season in the opening round. It was a show from both teams that was expected – a cagey game with both sides not wanting to lose…and it was an expected result, with the score being deadlocked 0-0 at full time.
We can expect a totally different game on Saturday. Auckland are gunning for the Premier’s Plate, whilst Melbourne (despite currently being in the top six) isn’t guaranteed a playoff spot. After losing to the Phoenix last weekend, the Victory have to be up for it on Saturday. However, they are without talisman Juan Mata, who, obviously, is a huge loss.
For Auckland FC, it’s a must-win game again, and it’s also a chance for those players filling in for those on the injured list to stake a claim for a starting spot in the remaining games to come.
It’s all on at Go Media Stadium again this weekend. This one has a rivalry feel to it, do not miss the action, get along to support the boys as we chase down the league leaders.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Jimmy Hilton will look to back up his performance from last weekend. With Michael Woud out of action, he’ll look to carry on that form as he makes his home debut.
Felipe Gallegos scored an absolute worldie against Adelaide last weekend, in what is surely a contender for goal of the season. He’s not been a renowned goal scorer for AFC, but here’s hoping he’s found his shooting boots at the back end of the season when we need it most.
For Melbourne Victory, Nikos Vergos, Keegan Jelacic and Clarismario Santos have all been the danger men for the Victory all season, with 16 goals shared between them. But can they do it without Juan Mata? Mata leads the competition with a staggering 12 assists, so it will be interesting to see how those players will fare without him.
FUN AT GO MEDIA STADIUM
FAMILY FAN ZONE
The Family Fan Zone kicks off from 3:30pm at the North End of the stadium, right beneath the big screen. There’s something for everyone from the 25-metre inflatable slide and football darts to the face painter and inflatable obstacle course. Heinz Free Fries are back again. Be sure to grab yours before kick-off!
PRE-MATCH
Pre-match, don’t miss the dance battle – a global competition returning to Auckland, with the finals set for 18th April. Some of the country’s best 1v1 dancers will take over the pitch, going head-to-head in a high-energy showdown before kick-off.
HALF-TIME RACE
There’s also a fresh twist on a fan favourite with Quest’s Rob the Nest. Using Quest bean bags, participants will compete for a $300 merch voucher and a two-night stay at any Quest hotel. All participants are selected at random.
PORT TIFO
Don’t miss the moment as The Port welcomes the team home on Saturday. We’re looking to create a cracking atmosphere and get behind the boys on Saturday for our pivotal clash against Melbourne Victory.
All fans with tickets in the South Stand are to be seated by 4:30pm and to hold up cards provided by The Port as the players take the field. The Capo will give instructions and lead as The Port looks to make this match a special one.
All fans in bays 21-23 are to leave their cards exactly where they found them, as they’ll come together to create a spectacular image. Be part of the pre-match action as The Port look to unveil their biggest tifo yet – handmade by Port Members.
