- Langwarrin SC have won two of their last five (W2, D1, L2) but failed to score in a recent 0-0 away draw against Melbourne Srbija.
- Manningham United Blues are also in mixed form (W2, L3) and are on a two-game losing streak heading into this match.
- Manningham United Blues beat Langwarrin SC 4-0 at home in the previous meeting in NPL Victoria 2 three months ago.
An end-to-end encounter is expected
When these two sides meet at Langwarrin SC, we've seen some high-scoring affairs in the past few years, with the average of 5.5 goals per match in the NPL Victoria 2 proving very entertaining for the neutral. Langwarrin SC are not usually the ones who come out on top, but they failed to do so last time out away, with Manningham United Blues coming out 4-0 winners.
Since then, the hosts have adapted a more pragmatic and defensive structure, with Jamie Skelly's side looking to keep things tight at the back before springing into life on the transition. They are by no means a long-ball side, but their centre-backs are very much a part of the attacking play, especially from set pieces and dead ball situations. That being said, Langwarrin SC aren't exactly prolific, with 11 goals scored in six home games this season.
Manningham United Blues, on the other hand, play a much more expansive style and will look to keep the ball in advanced areas in an attempt to get the better of their opponent's compact back four. Nick Marinos' men have a similar problem to the hosts in the fact that they're leaky at the back, conceding 17 goals in seven away games, although they've lost four away from home (W2, D1, L4).
Going for goals
Manningham United Blues are currently 6th in the NPL Victoria 2 table on 25 points after 16 matches, while Langwarrin SC occupy 12th spot after accruing just 16 points from the same number of matches.
The visitors are rightfully favourites at 1.92, although we think the value is on the 'Over 2.5 goals' market at 1.27, with the difference in style between these sides suggesting a lively encounter could be on the cards. Langwarrin will look to stifle the game and hit on the break, while Manningham will want to stretch the play with their wide attackers who can stretch the opposition.
