FC MacArthur has been a blistering force since the start of the AFL season, showing the potential of the season with two wins and two losses in the first five rounds of the regular season.
In the regular season, McArthur led his team to a gutsy win over the Wellington Phoenix, and Shemin was able to score his fourth goal of the season, and his second in the last three games, with a beautiful strike. His brave performance helped the team climb to fifth place in the league table. Despite the fact that Xie Ming is 34 years old, his goal-scoring ability is still not to be underestimated.
It's worth noting that Martin Jaegerius has been a shadow on the wing, repeatedly creating attacking opportunities for his team. This season, he has made eight appearances, contributing an impressive four goals and three assists. I believe his presence will have a profound impact on the team, especially at the crucial moments when he accurately delivers the ball to Xie Ming in the box.
The Mid Coast Mariners, on the other hand, have yet to make their home debut, but were defeated by Adelaide United in the last round, and seem to be hiding a lot of problems with their up and down performance this season.
The Mariners' backline has been particularly poor. In the AFC Champions League match against the Mariners, they conceded four goals against the A-League offense. In their last six games, they have also conceded three goals each against Kobe Marinos and Wellington Phoenix, leaving a gaping hole in the backline that needs to be filled.
Leader Mark Jaison has played as a defender in the times and hence he is trying to improve the defensive performance of the team. Defenders such as Bayern Kadada and Niton Paul also need to take responsibility to help the team reorganize its defense.
If the Midcoast Mariners can adjust their form, Ancient Olympics' speed on the counterattack and Mikhil Duka's creativity will bring new energy to the front line of the team. However, I am confident that FC MacArthur will have the last laugh at home.
