Wanderers v Jets: the key match-ups - Sydney Morning Herald

Ruben Zadkovich v Mark Bridge

Though the Wanderers have named Shinji Ono as being available, that's misleading. The Japanese international surely won't play, leaving a hole in the attacking midfield position. While Bridge, pictured, usually starts on the left, he'll probably revert to a more central role as cover for Ono. It's hard to ignore the rise of Zadkovich in the past year. He has reinvented himself this season as a more central player and should have a tight tussle with his 2008 Olympics teammate.

Emile Heskey v Nikolai Topor-Stanley

Plain and simple, Topor-Stanley has to bounce back in a big way after his shocking error in the Sydney derby last week. He has had a good season, however, and Tony Popovic has already been in his ear to reassure him he needs to move on as quickly as possible. The physical challenge of the returning Heskey, however, cannot be overlooked. The Englishman will be incredibly keen to make amends after missing the past few weeks and could prove difficult to stop.

Craig Goodwin v Youssouf Hersi

There's no bigger test of a left-back in the A-League right now than fronting up to Hersi. He has had the week off with suspension so should come into this game feeling fresh and keen to get himself in fine form in time for the finals. Goodwin has had an up-and-down season, at times being questioned for his form and fitness, but he now seems to have finally established himself. Getting the better of Hersi would give him, and his side, a huge boost.

Match information

Venue:Hunter Stadium, 5.30pm

Referee: Ben Williams

Television: Fox Sports 1

Radio: 702 ABC Sydney, 1233 ABC Newcastle and ABC Online

Odds: Newcastle $3.20, Draw $3.20, Western Sydney $2.25 (Sportsbet.com.au)

Last time: Western Sydney 2-1 Newcastle, Campbelltown Stadium

Head-to-head: Played 2; Newcastle 1, Western Sydney 1, Drawn 0