Bitesize Prediction: Western United vs Melbourne City – 07/01/24

Competition: A-League

Market: Melbourne City win

Odds: 8/11 @ BetUS

Looking to extend on their recent A-League romp, Melbourne City will travel to local rivals Western United on Sunday morning.

Starting with the hosts, while Western United might have opened up the new campaign with their sights set on mounting a genuine top-half charge, John Aloisi’s side find themselves at the heart of a major A-League nightmare. Despite claiming a much-needed 2-1 win against Brisbane last month, it appears that was nothing more than a minor boost for the Tarneit-based outfit. Last seen signing off 2023 with a toothless display as they slumped to a routine 2-0 defeat at the hands of Newcastle, Aloisi’s side sit rock-bottom of the A-League table. Remarkably collecting just six points from any of their first 10 appearances this season, Western United will be more than aware that they face another heavyweight challenge on Sunday morning. Likewise, including a 4-0 drumming against Central Coast last month, the former Brisbane boss has seen his side lose eight of their last nine appearances – a run that stems all the way back to October 21st.

As for the visitors, although Melbourne might face a real uphill battle in their bid to defend their A-League crown this season, the Sky Blues are enjoying a recent flurry. Last seen putting in a stunning display as they stormed their way to an iconic 8-1 romp against Brisbane, Aurelio Vidmar’s side are unbeaten in all of their previous seven straight appearances across all competitions. With that extended flurry stemming all the way back to November 25th, Sunday’s guests will certainly be smelling the chance to make another statement here. Desperate to make up some ground in the title chase, Melbourne will also be excited by their recent success on the road. Including a 2-1 win against Perth last month, Vidmar’s men have collected back-to-back A-League victories away from AAMI Park for the first time this season. Given what has been a huge recent gulf in class between Sunday’s opponents, we are backing an away victory for the defending A-League champions here.

Bet: Melbourne City 8/11 to beat Western United in Sunday’s A-League matchup @ BetUS