A-League Rd 21 preview, betting tips & best odds

The race for the 2023/24 A-League Premier’s Plate continues this weekend, with the Central Coast Mariners and the Wellington Phoenix tied on points at the top with just six weeks to go. Below are our free soccer betting tips for all five matches of round 21.

Western United vs Melbourne Victory

Thursday, March 14 – 7pm AEDT – AAMI Park

The third-placed Melbourne Victory continue their pursuit of a top-two finish as they face the last-placed Western United this weekend. After spending the entire season on the bottom of the table, United have found form in recent weeks, winning three of their past five matches. The previous game between these sides four weeks ago ended with Tony Popovic’s men stealing the win through two late goals, so expect another exciting clash.

Newcastle Jets vs Adelaide United

Friday, March 15 – 7:45pm AEDT – McDonald Jones Stadium

Two sides in the mix for the A-League wooden spoon, both the Newcastle Jets and Adelaide United are looking to break seven-match losing streaks on Friday night. United have had the best of recent encounters between the sides, winning seven of the past eight, but given they are playing on the road, this match should be close.

Wellington Phoenix vs Sydney FC

Saturday, March 16 – 5:30pm NZDT – Eden Park

After going down to Melbourne City last weekend, the Wellington Phoenix’s 10-match unbeaten streak came to an end and they lost their spot at the top of the table. They face another tough test as they welcome Sydney FC, who have lost just one of their past 12 matches. Comfortably winning the reverse fixture 3-1 in December, Sydney will be confident heading across the ditch as they haven’t lost there since 2013.

Brisbane Roar vs Macarthur FC

Saturday, March 16 – 3pm AEST – Ballymore Stadium

Following their comprehensive 3-0 loss at home to the Mariners, the fourth-placed Macarthur FC suddenly need to worry about their finals position. Heading to Brisbane this weekend, they face a tough test against a side that is unbeaten in its past four home matches. However, given their excellent head-to-head record against the Roar, Macarthur offer great value at underdog odds with the top A-League bookmakers.

Perth Glory vs Western Sydney Wanderers

Saturday, March 16 – 4:45pm AWST – HBF Park

After their humiliating 7-0 defeat to Melbourne City on Tuesday night, the Wanderers now head across to Perth looking for their first win there since 2014. Despite sitting below Western Sydney on the table, the Glory come into this match in better form with just one loss in their past eight. One player who has been particularly strong across this stretch is star striker Adam Taggart, who will be looking to add to his season tally of 14 goals.

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