- Manly United's last five NPL New South Wales Women's fixtures have yielded two wins, two draws and a defeat, with an average of 1.77 goals per game this season.
- Macarthur Rams have won three straight games, following consecutive defeats.
- Macarthur are still coming off the back of an epic 3-2 comeback win over Northern Tigers in which they scored a 95th minute winner.
Crucial clash for mid-table Rams and Manly
Manly United FC (W) in sixth face Macarthur Rams (W) in eighth as the two mid-table NPL New South Wales Women's sides prepare for Sunday's clash at Cromer Park. Both sides should be close to full strength with no major injuries or suspensions and the return of some key players this week.
Manly are chasing a better finals seeding while Macarthur are attempting to secure mid-table security before the split and it promises to be a tight contest. The Rams have enjoyed the better of the historical head-to-head record with five wins in the past 10 to Manly's three, including a 1-1 draw in the early-season reverse fixture.
Manly are favourites with bookmakers at 1.86, but Macarthur can be backed at 3.34 and the draw at 3.78. The home side's odds look about right and the bet that looks most obvious is 'Over 2.5 goals' at 1.41 as both clubs have been involved in some open games recently.
Manly’s midfield pressing vs Macarthur’s midfield penetration
The clash of styles between the two sides sets up one of the most interesting tactical battles of the weekend in Australia's most populous state. Manly are a high-pressing team that like to get tight to opponents all over the park, creating a disciplined, high-intensity style that is very collective in transition.
Tom Hopley's side have done well to stay competitive in this manner, although their home form has been patchy. Lapses in concentration at the back have cost them a couple of points.
Victoria Guzman's team are a different beast, preferring to utilise their width to build attacks. They can be deadly from set pieces and are a team that is capable of coming on strong at the end of games with their aerial prowess. Guzman blends youth and experience well and has engineered recent comebacks, although the team's depth has allowed them to play a more flexible system.
Youthful attacking talent on display
Manly's Gentle is good on the ball and quick on the break while Gilbane provides the pace and finishing power up front. Gilbane scored against Macarthur in the corresponding fixture last year. Sarkis has returned to Macarthur's attack and scored and assisted in their comeback win over Northern Tigers. Nojima is a star in the making, regularly getting forward or back to help her team transition while Tea Mucenski provides a focal point up top. Megan Mifsud is a proven late-game saviour.
