Match Preview: Hougang United vs Woodlands Wellington

By OPOD
Jia Hui Chicharito

Photo: Great Eastern Yeo's S-league

Unlucky not to have claimed a famous victory against Tampines Rovers in their last game, Hougang will be looking for all three points this time round as they take on visitors Woodlands Wellington.

Only a controversial decision from referee Abdul Malik prevented the Cheetahs from recording a win over Tampines last Friday. It was an undeserving result though, as Hougang did well throughout with the Stags looking rather lacklustre under new coach Tay Peng Kee.

With forwards Mamadou Diallo and Jordan Webb firing on all cylinders, it will be no surprise if Nenad Bacina’s side were to win here and please the home fans who have been ever-present for the team this season.

Woodlands on the other hand are on a poor run of form themselves and have not tasted victory in the league for 16 games ever since winning their first two games. In their last fixture, they succumbed to a 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Gombak United and to make matters worse, Ang Bang Heng was shown the red card in that game and will sit out this game due to suspension.

First-choice Ahmadulhaq Che Omar will similarly miss this due to reservist commitments. Therefore, it is highly likely that Prime League goalkeeper Fearghus Bruce could be given the nod in between the sticks for the Rams.

With Fabien Lewis still struggling with a niggling groin problem, forward Hussein Akil could see himself playing alongside skipper Daniel Hammond again for the second game running. That should also mean Oswind Suriya – who scored his side’s consolation goal against Gombak – will be given another start in midfield.

Hougang last five games: DLLWD

Woodlands last five games: LLLLD

Prediction: Woodlands’ woes to continue. 2-0 Hougang win. (SOURCE)