Newcastle Jets vs Melbourne City Match Preview

Newcastle Jest hosts Melbourne City for the 23rd round of the Australian A-League behind empty seats due to the COVID-19 outbreak. 

In the previous round, Newcastle Jets couldn't get anything positive as they lost 1-0 to Brisbane Roar. That was an important match for Newcastle Jets as they still fight for a spot into the playoffs. After the recent change in their bench, they have performed really good and their motivation was increased. Karl Robinson, who is now the new coach of Newcastle Jets, brought them hope and optimism.

Before the match against Brisbane Roar, they were unbeaten for six consecutive games, having won 2-1 at home over Perth Glory and 0-3 over Adelaide United on the road. There are many expectations from the 34-year-old striker Roy O'donovan on their offensive line. On the other hand, the 28-year-old Ben Kantarovski was injured and is unavailable for tonight's game.

Melbourne City confirmed once again the title of the 'favorites' in the match against Central Coast Mariners winning 2-4 comfortably. Three goals were scored by the striker Jamie MacLaren and one by the experienced Markel Susaeta. They are currently 2nd-placed in the standings with 40 points, having played two games more than the first-placed Sydney.

Jamie Maclaren continues to perform well, being in excellent shape and scoring continuously. Melbourne City, though, has a lot of defensive gaps as they concede goals in almost every game.

Newcastle Jets have great motivation after the arrival of their new coach Karl Robinson on the bench, and he probably wants to show that the recent defeat against Brisbane Roar was just a false step. Melbourne City have great quality midfielders and score with ease, but their defense faces a lot of problems. I expect Newcastle Jets to make things difficult for Melbourne City in this one. The home team is closer to win in my eyes, home team DNB is my final call.