Melbourne Victory will take on Macarthur FC on Friday night at AAMI park. This is a crucial test for Tony Popovich’s men, the currently placed 5th place Victory will match up against 3rd placed opposition.

Melbourne Victory got back to winning ways against Central Coast Mariners, after their 3 game slump. It was a big relief for Popovich’s men, who started the season in such great form, before their 3 game loosing streak. But now they beat the Mariners, they should be confident they can rediscover their early season form- competitive, hungry and finding ways to get the job done.

Macarthur are looking to rebound from their 2-2 draw with Newcastle, but they are looking good heading into round 17, with 6 wins so far.

The players who could make a difference, based on the teams last performance include:

Melbourne Victory:

Josh Brillante- completing 59 passes and winning 4/7 duels.

Leigh Broxham- Completing 49 passes at 88%

Nishan Velupillay- Scored a bullet header to win the game in the 94th minute for the Victory against Central Coast.

Jake Brimmer- Completing 31 passes and winning 2/4 duals.

Macarthur FC:

Tommy Uskok- Completing 18 passes, winning 4/7 duals and scoring the games opening goal.

Tommy Oar- Completing 28 passes and a goal.

Charles M’Mombwa- Completing 46 passes and winning 6/12 duals.

The Melbourne Victory start as favourites at home, at $1.90. The stakes for a draw are $3.70. Macarthur come in at $3.75. Gamble Responsibly.

Prediction: Melbourne Victory 2-1 Macarthur.