An obviously distraught Perth Glory faced off against former-finals rivals Sydney FC at nib Stadium on Friday night, fresh from the pains of their salary cap breach. A dip in form over previous weeks had threatened to derail a strong Sydney side in their race for the top spot, but a strong showing overnight earned themselves an invaluable three points, keeping them in the race for the title of top dogs.
Jamie MacLaren’s disallowed goal was as close as Perth came on the night and Sydney took a half-time lead through club captain Alex Brosque after Danny Vukovic initially saved Marc Janko’s headed effort.
Bernie Ibini then took much of the sting out of the match with a lovely left foot volley firing into the far corner before Brosque added his second of the match – ending any chance of a late Perth resurgence.
Playing for pride
While an investigation had been pending, few would have been able to predict the forceful ramifications the Glory’s salary cap breach would have on the club’s immediate future. For much of the season, Kenny Lowe’s men were the surprise packet of the competition.
But Friday night showed that the verve of competition is what strives any team forward. Now destined to a dreary and underwhelming seventh place finish, Perth looked dispirited following Sydney’s goals and struggled to show the character and fight that has been a hallmark of their campaign – most notably in the reverse fixture earlier in the season.
A goal down, the Glory rallied and managed to take a crucial three points from the Sky Blues. In a similar situation last night, there would be no comeback and as it turns out playing for pride just is not enough.
https://youtu.be/oeKNeDBf6t8
Is Bernie Ibini back?
While the impacts of Janko and Brosque bought immense pedigree to this Sky Blues squad, it was the signing of Bernie Ibini that most excited Sydney’s supporter group. But at times, the 22-year-old has disappointed.
A brilliant solo goal against the Wanderers early in the campaign signalled his arrival, but highlights since then have been few and far between. Until tonight.
His goal was instinctively taken on the lesser-preferred of his two feet, leaving Vukovic stranded. Add to that a strong drive from distance later in the match and Ibini looks to be adding some end product to his quick feet and irresistible speed.
An in-form Janko and performing Ibini could spell trouble for any of the top six.
Still work to do
A solid result on the road, the three points keeps Sydney in with a shot of the title after 27 rounds but they certainly have work to do. A favourable result with the Victory losing out to ninth placed Newcastle – they now must rely on Wellington and Adelaide dropping points if they are to have a realistic chance.
They will expect to win next week against the Jets which could set up an enticing final round fixture against Wellington to see who may finish first past the post.
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
