Auckland FC were only established this year but already their rivalry with fellow New Zealand outfit Wellington Phoenix is bubbling up nicely ahead of Saturday’s showdown at Go Media Stadium.
These two have already met in the A-League this season, with two late Jake Brimmer goals helping Auckland to a 2-0 win in Wellington.
That was just one of five wins the Black Knights have enjoyed in their first five games, while remarkably yet to concede a single goal this season.
Wellington will be hoping they can be the first ones to inflict a blow on the Black Knights, for what would be a fiery encounter at Go Media Stadium.
Auckland FC v Wellington Phoenix betting preview
Auckland FC hit the ground running
It’s been a remarkable start from Auckland under former Sydney FC manager Stebe Corica, with five wins from five, eight goals scored and not one conceded.
Auckland have been relying on goals from all over the park, with six different players contributing to those eight A-League goals so far.
Brimmer was the star of the show in the very first Kiwi Classico last month, as the 26-year-old midfielder found the back of the net in the 88th and 90th minute against Wellington.
Having never been behind in a game, it will be interesting to see how Auckland react when they eventually do concede a first goal.
However, should Auckland get ahead in this one, Corica has a side that know how to get over the line in tight games.
Phoenix eyeing revenge
Having looked like they were going to take a draw in the opening Kiwi Classico, two lapses in concentration late on really cost Wellington.
Giancarlo Italiano’s side have responded well to the disappointment, winning their following two games against Central Coast Mariners and Melbourne Victory without conceding a single goal.
With three clean sheets in their last four A-League games, Wellington have looked largely solid at the back, barring that late blip against the Black Knights.
Two strong defences on show, under 2.5 total goals in what is likely to be another cagey encounter in Auckland is available at 1.72, while the over is currently 2.10.
Read more soccer previews on site
Auckland FC v Wellington Phoenix odds
Auckland FC - 1.90
Draw - 3.40
Wellington Phoenix - 4.20
View the full market and more odds for Auckland FC v Wellington Phoenix.
This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
Related Articles
Soccer
Tamworth v Tottenham: FA Cup Sunday preview
Tottenham Hotspur turn their attention to the FA Cup when they face non-league Tamworth late on Sunday night, with the Lilywhites aiming to keep alive another potential route to silverware his season.
