Any neutrals looking for an entertaining fixture to enjoy this weekend would be unlikely to choose a clash between Central Coast Mariners and Adelaide United. That, however, is exactly what the football-starved Canberra public will be served up on, perhaps appropriately, Halloween, as the Mariners take a home game to the nation’s capital for the second time this season.

Uncompromising Mariners defender Nigel Boogaard has been in the spotlight this week, with four other A-League clubs reportedly ready to swoop for the 23-year-old should he opt to reject his new contract offer. Boss Lawrie McKinna, however, has more pressing matters to deal with as he attempts to arrest a form slump that has seen his side win only one of their last four outings.

Adelaide, meanwhile, can overhaul their opponents on the ladder if they manage to bag all three points on Saturday, but their preparations have been overshadowed by an apparent row between coach Aurelio Vidmar and club captain Travis Dodd. Dodd had to settle for a place on the bench against Melbourne last week and subsequently slammed claims from Vidmar that the team lacked leadership on the field.

Both sides come into the game in indifferent form and struggling to score goals and when you throw in what is likely to be a paltry crowd in Canberra, it’s hard to foresee a classic unfolding. The Reds may just have enough guile and experience to snatch a narrow victory.

Prediction: Central Coast Mariners 0-1 Adelaide United