Despite being at opposite ends of the table, the Roar and the Mariners could prove to be an entertaining match.
Can Brisbane deal with Luis Garcia?
After a stellar run of play to set up the Mariners in his debut against Western Sydney, Luis Garcia backed up with an incredible display against Wellington in New Zealand. The Spaniard not only bagged his first goal in the A-League but upped his involvement from the previous round to orchestrate Central Coast’s 3-1 away win. Given his impressive showing, Brisbane’s less than impressive defence of late, and the aggregate age of their starting XI will the Roar be able to aptly deal with the Mariner’s marquee man?
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Will Central Coast neglect their defence?
Not only did the inclusion of the former Liverpool player see a return to winning ways, a first since the turn of the year, but also the resurgence of Central Coast’s attack minded play – something the side started the season embracing whole-heartedly until goals dried up and confidence plummeted. However, while the return of exciting, attacking play will delight neutrals, the side’s faithful may be wary of the price their defence could pay for a reprise up-front. Given Brisbane slotted three past Sydney at Allianz Stadium last weekend, facing the Roar in Queensland with an entirely attacking game plan could be risky, but something Tony Walmsley may well be willing to try in the chase for a vital three points.
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Can Brisbane offer more than just Jamie MacLaren
It’s hard to mention Brisbane’s season without uttering the name Jamie Maclaren, with the striker kick-starting his career since moving from Perth in the off-season. And while Maclaren has been a revelation under John Aloisi, his fellow forwards have simply under-performed whenever he’s absent. In fact, the U23 representative has been involved in 12 of the Roar’s 25 goals this campaign, and notched 55 shots (20 on target) from 13 games – almost double that of his nearest teammate Dimitri Petratos who’s pulled off 29 shots and just two goals. If Brisbane are to ensure they can win without Maclaren, should he suffer injury or receive more international call-ups, they need to see the likes of Petratos and Henrique pull their weight in the forward line.
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