Auckland FC vs Central Coast Mariners Preview
Auckland know they need something from this game to stay in contention for the minor premiership. They should be too good for the Mariners, who are on a five-game winless run.
- Mariners are winless in their last 5 games
- BTTS has landed in Auckland's last 5 games
- BTTS has landed in 8 of the Mariners' last 9 games
- BTTS has landed in all 4 previous meetings
Auckland FC vs CC Mariners Head To Head
This will be the third meeting between the teams this season. Auckland prevailed 2-1 in Gosford back in Round 9, while an Oli Lavale double saw the Mariners earn a point at Go Media in Round 14.
Auckland FC Still In Hunt For Minor Premiership
Auckland come into this contest with an 11-8-5 record on the season and in second spot on the ladder.
Steve Corica's side looked to be in a strong position to secure back-to-back minor premierships after toppling leaders Newcastle 2-1 last month.
However, the Black Knights have gone on a three-game winless run since that outing, meaning they trail the Jets by three points heading into the penultimate round.
Auckland came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw against Melbourne Victory last week, with Sam Cosgrove and Lachlan Brook getting on the scoresheet.
Central Coast Mariners Finals Hopes Over
The Mariners head into this clash with a 7-8-9 record on the season and down in ninth position on the ladder.
Central Coast were putting together an unlikely finals charge, but they've stumbled over the last month and failed to win their last five games.
That string of results have left the Mariners six points adrift of Melbourne City in the last finals spot, so they basically need a miracle to feature in the postseason.
Warren Moon's side missed a chance to propel themselves in a more favourable position after drawing 2-2 with Brisbane Roar last week, conceding a late equaliser.