A-League: Western United Focus

Western United had a disappointing 2023/24 season and will be out to climb the A-League laddr in the season ahead.

It seems a long time ago since Western won the 2021/22 A-League grand final, as their form has slipped away since then.

They have missed out on finals altogether in the last two seasons, and getting back in the mix for the top six in 2024/25 will be the aim.

John Aloisi’s side can be backed at 2.80 to make the top six and play finals, in what will be an historic campaign either way.

Western will play at their new Ironbark Fields stadium for the first time this season and they will keen to ensure it is a successful one.

Let’s take a look at how Western are shaping up ahead of the new season.

. What: 2024/25 A-League season
. Where: Venues across Australia and New Zealand
. When: October 2024 to May 2025
. How to watch: Paramount+, Channel 10
. Odds: Western United 15.00 to win grand final

Western look to climb ladder

Western United had a season to forget in 2023/24 when finishing second from bottom on the A-League ladder.

They picked up seven wins from 27 games, and just managed to avoid the wooden spoon with Perth Glory finishing four points below them.

Western scored just 36 goals, the lowest amount in the competition, and conceded 55, so there were issues at both ends of the park.

They are 9.00 to finish bottom in the new season, but Western are looking up.

However they begin the new season with renewed hope, and with John Aloisi at the helm, they still have the coach that guided them to grand final glory.

That proved that anything is possible, so a place in the top six at the end of the season, is not beyond the realms of possibility.

Having a settled home venue, one they call their own, will also be crucial, and it is important they turn Ironbark Fields into a fortress.

Japan ace arrives

Western may have had issues scoring goals last season, but they have tried to solve the situation with the capture of Japan striker Hiroshi Ibusuki.

Ibusuki arrives from Adelaide United, where he made a name for himself as a striker that can put the ball in the back of the net.

He scored 49 goals over two seasons for Adelaide, and Western will be hoping he can carry on in the same fashion with them.

Ibusuki will start the season as one of the most feared strikers in the A-League, and can be backed at 7.00 to finish as Top Goalscorer.

Western have also moved to plug their leaky defence with the capture of Tate Russell from Western Sydney Wanderers.

Aloisi will also put a lot of faith in the young stars who have made their way through the ranks, and will get the chance to shine on the big stage this season.

United star on the road

Western United will begin the new A-League season with a tricky away trip.

They will head to Wellington Phoenix on Sunday 20th October, and can be backed at 3.90 to return home with all three points.

The Phoenix are 1.80 to win, while the draw is available at 3.75.