COVID outbreaks play havoc with A-Leagues

Ben McKay |

COVID-19 and border restrictions have cut the upcoming A-League Men’s round in half, with just three matches tentatively scheduled across Sydney and Melbourne.

Western United, Macarthur FC and Central Coast are all enduring outbreaks among their squad and cannot fulfil this weekend’s fixtures.

Additionally, the Newcastle Jets women’s side cannot summon enough fit players this weekend due to the virus, producing the round’s only A-League Women’s postponement.

The past fortnight has been plagued with postponements but league chiefs believe three men’s fixtures can be safely played this weekend, headlined by the clash between leaders Melbourne Victory and rivals Adelaide United.

Second-bottom Wellington Phoenix will play the Jets at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium earlier on Saturday, before Melbourne City host Western Sydney on Sunday.

“Our primary concern is for the health, wellbeing and safety of all players, staff and their families,” a league statement read.

“We will continue to work with all clubs to confirm a new schedule for all postponed matches as soon as possible.”

City boss Patrick Kisnorbo revealed that all but five of his players had contracted COVID-19 during the Christmas period, though all had recovered except for two young players.

Western Sydney’s Saturday match against Perth has been postponed as the Glory manage Western Australia’s hardline border rules, freeing up the Wanderers to play City in a rearranged match.

Perth will head to NSW after their isolation period concludes and be able to resume their campaign on January 15.

A-LEAGUE MEN FIXTURE UPDATE

Saturday, January 8

Wellington Phoenix v Newcastle Jets – Netstrata Jubilee Stadium – 5:05pm

Melbourne Victory v Adelaide United – AAMI Park – 7:45pm

Sunday, January 9

Melbourne City v Western Sydney – AAMI Park – 6:45pm

Postponed: Western United v Sydney FC, Western Sydney v Perth Glory, Brisbane Roar v Central Coast, Melbourne City v Macarthur FC

A-LEAGUE WOMEN FIXTURE UPDATE

Saturday, January 8

Canberra United v Adelaide United – Viking Park – 5:05pm

Sydney FC v Perth Glory – Netstrata Jubilee Stadium – 7:45pm

Sunday, January 9

Brisbane Roar v Western Sydney – Moreton Daily Stadium – 3:05pm

Melbourne City v Wellington Phoenix – AAMI Park – 4:05pm

Postponed: Newcastle Jets v Melbourne Victory

* All kickoff times local

AAP