March 29, 2015 12:56:23 UK
Coach John van ‘t Schip doesn’t believe Melbourne City have locked away sixth spot in the A-League, but he is starting to eye a move up the table after the 1-0 win over Brisbane Roar.
In arguably the biggest match of the season for both teams at AAMI Park, Jonatan Germano’s fifth-minute goal secured the three points for City.
It left them eight points above the Roar in the battle for the last Finals Series spot. Brisbane, who are 51.00 to win the Asian Champions League, have a game in hand over their rivals.
City have a tough run-in to the end of the season, so they can’t take anything for granted as they look to secure a finals berth for just the second time.
Three of their last four games are away from home and their last three matches see them take on premiership contenders Wellington Phoenix, Perth Glory and Adelaide United.
A top-four finish that would secure a home final may be beyond them but they will have both Adelaide and Sydney FC in their sights now.
“Everybody knows it was very important, a six-pointer,” said the Dutchman after the Roar match.
“Now there’s a gap and we have to make sure that we continue gaining points and make it difficult for Brisbane to catch us. And maybe you can even look a little more up (the table).”
Van ‘t Schip withdrew marquee striker Josh Kennedy, who had helped set up the goal for Germano, ten minutes into the second half.
But he said it was a precautionary move, as Kennedy had missed training during the week and was never likely to last the full 90 minutes.
Speaking of his team’s chances of making the finals, he added: “That’s not sure at all. We have four tough games ahead of us. Until the end we have to be really prepared.”
Melbourne City are 2.50 to win their next game against Western Sydney Wanderers, who are 2.75 with the draw 3.30.
Don’t forget, if the match finishes 0-0, bet365 will refund all pre-match Correct Score, Half-Time/Full-Time and Scorecast bets with our fantastic Bore Draw Money Back offer.
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