DrinkWise Preview: Round 17 v South East Melbourne Phoenix

It’s time for another Throwdown and there would be no better way for Melbourne United to get back on the winners list than by beating cross-town rivals the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

There will be plenty on the line as Melbourne looks to cement its place on top of the ladder and South East Melbourne hope to stay in fourth spot as the business end of the season approaches.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Sam McDaniel has taken his game to a whole new level this season and across his last six outings, he’s averaged just under 21 minutes per game and played a key starting role. This showcases the amount of faith Dean Vickerman has in McDaniel and he’s doing big things on both ends of the court with his extended minutes.

Last round against Sydney, McDaniel took on the challenge of guarding Casper Ware and that move was a key factor in turning the game around as eventually Melbourne ran out convincing winners, 103-78.

His length and athleticism are keys to his defensive game and he’s also proven ready to knock down shots, highlighted by him averaging 7.5 points over his last six games.

With McDaniel’s defensive prowess, United has four bona fide stoppers at the guard positions. McDaniel, Mitch McCarron, Shea Ili and Yudai Baba are all more than capable of shutting down opponents and they all thrive on the defensive end.

KEY MATCH UP

Cam Gliddon and Chris Goulding are flamethrowers who can catch fire from deep at any given moment and both head into this match-up in fine form.

Gliddon has been great for the Phoenix in his last four outings, averaging 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game. He’s a key piece of South East Melbourne’s puzzle and his ability to knock down shots from anywhere on the court makes him a tough cover.

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Goulding connected on 11 triples in three games across Round 16 and he’s such a threat as soon as he crosses half court. Averaging a touch under 16 points per game for the season, Goulding has been ready to hit shots when his team has needed him most.

Early in games, Goulding has been extraordinary in recent times. When Goulding gets hot early, it gives United such as advantage from the opening tip.

THE OTHER GUYS

The Phoenix head into Round 17 with a 14-13 record to sit fourth on the ladder, one win clear of the Hawks in fifth. With less than a quarter of the regular season remaining, every game means so much to those teams looking to sneak into the post-season.

Whilst South East Melbourne have lost four of their last five games, they remain very capable of turning it around and causing major headaches for the opposition.

Mitch Creek is the key to the Phoenix’s Finals hopes and he’s been in strong form this season, averaging 19.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. He’s a beast on both ends of the floor and brings his teammates into the game with his infectious energy and tough play.

Kyle Adnam has risen to challenge with Keifer Sykes out injured. Having a great year for the Phoenix, Adnam – who you know will bring 100% effort every time he steps on the floor – is averaging 12.9 points and 3.8 assists per game.

Ben Moore is somewhat of an x-factor for South East Melbourne and he needs to be kept in check. Averaging 11.2 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, while shooting a healthy 60% from the field, Moore has shown his ability to score in bunches and makes life difficult for the opposition.

Yannick Wetzell isn’t afraid to do the dirty work and he thrives in the paint. He’s put up some big numbers throughout the season and he’ll have his work cut out for him in this one going up against Jock Landale and Jo Lual-Acuil Jr.

Ryan Broekhoff has been unable to find his groove in the league after signing mid-season, but you’d be a fool to give him any room as he could turn that around very quickly with his shooting ability.

GAME INFO

Who: South East Melbourne Phoenix v Melbourne United
Tip off: 5:30pm (AEST), Saturday 8 May.
Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne.
Watch: SBS VICELAND and SBS On Demand.
Tickets: SEM Phoenix tickets available here. Use password PNXPHOENIX for $10 tickets.