Perth Glory vs Central Coast Mariners Prediction & Betting Tips - A-League

Prediction published on 15/02/2023, 18:00  by Steve Ashfield in Football Predictions

Ninth placed Perth Glory host Central Coast Mariners who are second in the A-League. Perth may only have three clubs below them but are just two points adrift of the final play-off place. Current form is not helping them though with just one point from their last three league fixtures and one win in the last five. That came at home against Melbourne Victory who are bottom of the A-League. Perth are having problems in defence with only Western United conceding more league goals this season. Their most recent game saw them beaten 4-2 at home by league leaders Melbourne City. That was their sixth straight A-League game in which both teams have scored. The defeat last week was their first home league defeat of the season. Before that they had won four and lost three at home. That’s much needed as they have the worst away record in the A-League.

Central Coast Mariners need three points as they struggle to close the gap on the league leaders. They are eight points behind Melbourne City and played a game more. Therefore their main target looks to secure qualification for the play-off semi-finals. A top two finish is needed to avoid the quarter finals and they only lead third placed Adelaide United on goal difference. Last week saw them end a run of three league games without a win with a 2-1 win at Brisbane Roar who are a place below Perth Glory. Away form has seen the Mariners win three, draw one and lose three. Before the win at Brisbane, they had lost three of their last four on the road. Each of their last four away league fixtures and the last five at all venues has seen both teams score. Go for that stat to come up in this match.