Western United vs Newcastle Jets Predictions

Western United come into this game full of confidence after an incredible start to their debut season in the A-League, winning three of their opening five games and sitting second in the table. A loss to league leaders, Melbourne City, is the only blemish so far this season and they’ll be keen to extend their good run this weekend. 

Newcastle Jets haven’t enjoyed such good fortune, failing to win so far and only picking up two points. The side have struggled to see out games so far, leading in 50% of their games but failing to maintain that advantage. They need to turn things around quickly or risk being cut adrift as teams begin to pick up more points. 

Good wins against Melbourne Victory and Western Sydney Wanderers have put Western United among the front runners for the Premiers Plate this season and the addition of Diamanti looks to be inspired with the Italian running games this season. He’s had eight shots on target from outside the box so far this year, more than anyone else in the league and he’s beginning to look more and more dangerous as he settles in. 

The main difference between the two sides has been in front of goal. Western United have had six different scorers so far this term and the team look full of goals across the pitch. By contrast, Newcastle Jets have seen their attack rely on Arroyo, with both Hoolahan and Sheppard picking up long-term injuries before the season started. The striker is unavailable this weekend, however, after being called up to the Panama national team.

At the back, both sides have looked susceptible to mistakes and neither have kept a clean sheet since the opening day of the season, when Western United beat Wellington Phoenix 1-0. With neither side looking rock solid at the back, it looks likely both teams will find the net and the 2-1 scoreline in the favour of Western United looks like a good-value choice at 8/1.

Despite this, almost all the stats fall on the side of Western United and it is hard to look past them for the win as they come up against a Newcastle Jets side devoid of confidence and lacking ideas in the final third. Western United being available at evens looks a little overpriced, especially at home, and we’re very confident in predicting the win for the A-League’s newest side.