The A-League's New Year's Day fixture features a 'Western Derby' between Western Sydney Wanderers and FC Macarthur. Despite hosting the match, Western Sydney Wanderers have struggled recently, with a record of only two wins, three draws, and five losses in their last ten matches. Their attacking efficiency is the lowest in the league, averaging only 0.8 goals per game. Key players Hammond and Simmons are unavailable due to U23 team commitments, and left-back Keisuke Bakuchi is injured, impacting their wing play. However, Western Sydney Wanderers have a favorable historical record against FC Macarthur, winning six of their last ten encounters. FC Macarthur FC will be without midfielder Brattan due to suspension, and several key players are injured, including Ji Dong-won. Despite these absences, FC Macarthur FC are in good form, undefeated in their last five matches, and they recently won 5-4 against Newcastle Jets, displaying strong attacking prowess. The handicap offered, with Western Sydney Wanderers as home favourites at -0.5, appears shallow, which suggests caution towards the home team. FC Macarthur FC have shown resilience on the road, scoring an average of 1.4 goals per away match, potentially maintaining their unbeaten run through their attacking strength.