Hyundai A-League Round 26 Preview – Melbourne Victory v North Queensland Fury

Hyundai A-League Round 26 Preview
Melbourne Victory v North Queensland Fury
Etihad Stadium
Friday 5th February 2010

 Melbourne Victory boss Ernie Merrick may ultimately look back on last week’s bruising defeat at the hands of Gold Coast United as the game that cost his side the minor premiership. The Queenslanders’ victory allowed them to draw level on points with Victory at the top of the A-League ladder and to rub salt into the wound, saw Kevin Muscat earn a two-match suspension and Robbie Kruse pick up a shoulder injury that may rule him out of Friday’s home clash with North Queensland Fury. Kruse’s absence would be a major blow for the reigning premiers, with Archie Thompson struggling to overcome an ankle injury and Mate Dugandzic unavailable due to a knee strain.

Fury coach Ian Ferguson, meanwhile, has admitted that he is already preparing for next season’s campaign, but it remains to be seen whether marquee man Robbie Fowler will be a part of those plans in the wake of his refusal to warm the bench against Brisbane in Round 24. The former Liverpool man did return to the starting line-up for the midweek clash with Newcastle, however and although his dry spell in front of goal continued, he played a key role in Fury’s come from behind win. In terms of team news, Dyron Daal looks set to miss the long trip south after picking up a hamstring injury in the win over the Jets, with Englishman Terry Cooke poised to replace the Dutchman in the starting line-up.

With their finals hopes over, the visitors have nothing to lose and could trouble a Melbourne backline that has looked decidedly vulnerable at times this season. Even with several key men missing, however, the home side’s extra quality should be enough to get them over the line.

Prediction: Melbourne Victory 2-1 North Queensland Fury