The Melbourne derby brings Victory's pressure into direct contact with City's patient build-up. City's wide play can still create chances after it beats that pressure. Charlton and Norwich present a different contest: Charlton defend the middle and break out wide, while Norwich seek turnovers and quick passes into their forwards.
Victory's Genreau and Valadon can reach City's young central passers before they settle, with May running beyond the recovery. City's Rossetto remains absent after missing Auckland, while Victory's central group has played together and had a fuller recovery week. City can feed Mabil and Behich outside, but the first midfield contest gives Victory the more useful route. That's why I'm siding with Melbourne Victory.
Charlton's Campbell and wing-backs can carry the ball around Norwich's narrow press and find Grant on the first cross or the next loose ball. Norwich remain without Toure, who also missed Portsmouth, and McLean's return comes with limited minutes after recent absences. Charlton's home defence has kept games tight, and its wide supply can keep Norwich from turning every regain into a clean shot. That's why I'm siding with Charlton.
