Emerton and Kewell set to duel

Round 1 of the A-leagues seventh season begins this weekend, with many tantalizing fixtures scheduled. Whilst plenty of focus has been on the duel between the two biggest signings in A-league history; Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton; there is much more for A-league fans to sink their teeth into on opening weekend. Let us take you through a preview of this weekend's fixtures.

Newcastle Jets FC vs. Melbourne Heart FC - Oct. 8, 4:30pm at Ausgrid Stadium

The Jets will start the season in relative turmoil after the shock sacking of manager Branko Culina on Oct. 4 and the attempted termination of Jason Culina's contract. Despite all this drama, the Jets will be looking to build on their solid defence and improve on last season's 7th placed finish.

It's out with the old and in with the young at Heart as their old-guard attack of Aloisi, Sibon and Skoko have left or retired and been replaced with youngsters Mate Dugandzic and David Williams.

Prediction: If the Jets can shrug off the club's inner turmoil they should be strong enough for the victory based on the foundations of a solid defence.

Melbourne Victory FC vs. Sydney FC - Oct. 8, 6:30pm at Etihad Stadium

A veritable clash of the titans at Etihad Stadium with Australian legends Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton making their debuts for their respective teams. All eyes will be on this match to get a good indication of what each player will bring not only to their teams, but the league.

The Victory has an embarrassment of riches in attack, and if they manage to get the balance right they will be difficult to stop. The fans will be expectant however, and if results are inconsistent, patience may wear thin fast.

Sydney will be aiming to perform much better after last season's disastrous campaign. In Emerton they have a beacon of hope that could push them on to greater things. Along with Emerton, Sydney has signed three defenders, failing to address their lack of a potent attacking threat, which may prove to be their undoing.

Prediction: The Victory to claim a morale-boosting win but Emerton to outshine Kewell

Brisbane Roar FC vs. Central Coast Mariners FC - Oct. 8, 7:45pm at Suncorp Stadium

In the history of the A-league, no side has ever won consecutive championships and the Mariners will want to exact some revenge on the Roar for last season's grand final defeat.

The Roar enters the season on the back of a 28-game unbeaten run, including their dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Mariners in last season's Grand Final. They will have to try and preserve their unbeaten run without the goals of Solórzano and Barbarouses who have moved on. They will also be without current 'Australian male soccer player of the year' Matt McKay after his move to Glasgow Rangers.

The Mariners have retained the majority of their squad and strengthened in depth during the off-season. With the return of the gifted Mustafa Amini on loan from Borussia Dortmund the Mariners will be aiming to go one better than last season.

Prediction: This should prove to be a tight game, either a draw or the Mariners to sneak a victory

Gold Coast United FC vs. Wellington Phoenix FC - Oct. 9, 4pm at Skilled Park

Both teams have potentially weakened in the off-season, as the Gold Coast's squad was given a huge overhaul and Wellington lost several players, including the influential Rojas.

Teams usually require time to gel properly, and the Gold Coast's youthful squad do not have the luxury. A big loss will be felt from the departure of Shane Smeltz and the goals which he guaranteed.

Little is expected from Wellington this season and that could inevitably work in their favour. With low expectations the players can play with more freedom and expression and could end up surprising everyone, especially if they get Paul Ifill on form.

Prediction: A tight game, with the Gold Coast prevailing

Perth Glory FC vs. Adelaide United FC - Oct. 9, 4:30pm at nib Stadium

In Perth and Adelaide we have two strong squads who have made equally strong additions during the off-season.

The Glory has made astute off-season signings, securing the guaranteed goals of Shane Smeltz and the vast experience of former Man Utd, Celtic and Hibernian player Liam Miller. Brazilian Andrezinho looks to be an exciting prospect and if the manager finds the right blend of new and old players, season 7 could prove to be a fruitful one for the Glory.

Boss Rini Coolen has made several signings that will strengthen the excellent depth the Adelaide side already possessed, with Socceroo Dario Vidosic a particularly impressive signing. Should they avoid a bad run of form like they suffered last season they could be major contenders.

Prediction: Another tight, exciting game, perhaps resulting in a score-draw