The 2009/10 Hyundai A-League season is really beginning to heat up now as we move in to round 3. So far we have seen Gold Coast United and Sydney FC win both of their opening games and both teams are looking quite confident and playing some great football.
Personally, I am most interested in Friday nights’ soccer game between Adelaide United and Gold Coast United. Can the in-form Gold Coast United defeat the 2008/09 runners-up is the question that I would like to see answered.
So far, Perth Glory and North Queensland have not taken home any points from the first two games and will be looking to do so this round. The last thing that they want to do is fall behind so early in the season.
Shane Smeltz of Gold Coast United has been named as Player of the Week for round 2 after scoring 4 goals in the Gold Coast’s 5-0 thrashing of North Queensland. Smeltz is also leading the goal scoring by 3 goals with second place currently being held by four players with 2 goals.
Adama Traore is being touted as the player to watch as the left sided full back played stunningly in his debut for Gold Coast United last week. Electrifying is the term being used to describe the Ivorian full back.
Centrebet is the place to go for all your soccer bets. They have markets open for first goal scorer and on some markets how many red cards will be handed out in the game. Currently they have an offer going that doubles your first deposit up to a massive $200. Check their site out for more info and for the latest A-League odds.
My tips for round three are as follows.
Friday 21st August @ 7.30pm
Adelaide United FC vs. Gold Coast United
Friday night will see Adelaide United FC host Gold Coast United at Hindmarsh Stadium, Adelaide. Set to be a close match between the in-form side and the 2008/09 aleague runners up. If this game sees a winner then I would pick Gold Coast, however with such closely matched sides I can only see a draw.
My Prediction – Draw with odds of $2.45 at CentreBet.com.au. Final Score 1-1
Saturday 22nd August @ 3pm
Central Coast Mariners FC vs. Sydney FC
Saturday afternoon is bound to show us a close match between the Central Coast Mariners and Sydney FC. The match will kick off at 3pm local time at the Bluetongue Stadium on the Central Coast.
My Tip – Draw ($2.65 @ CentreBet.com.au). Final Score 2-2.
Saturday 22nd August @ 5pm
North Queensland Fury vs. Melbourne Victory FC
The Melbourne Victory will be the more likely winner in this match-up, but even though they are the better side, I believe a draw is on the cards. The match will be played at Dairy Farmers Stadium.
My Tip – Draw ($1.83 @ CentreBet.com.au). Final Score 1-1.
Sunday 23rd August @ 3pm
Brisbane Roar FC vs. Wellington Phoenix FC
Brisbane is the obvious pick for me here. They are a much higher quality outfit in comparison to Wellington Phoenix and should take an easy win at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.
My Tip – Brisbane Roar ($1.73 @ CentreBet.com.au) by 3 goals. Score 4-1.
Sunday 23rd August @ 3pm
Perth Glory FC vs. Newcastle Jets FC
The final match of round three will see Perth Glory take on the Newcastle Jets at the Members Equity Stadium in Perth. Starting at 3pm on Sunday, it is my belief that the Perth Glory will take the win.
My Tip – Perth Glory ($2.05 @ CentreBet.com.au) by 1 goal. Final Score 2-1.
