Ahead of tonight’s clash between Sydney FC and Brisbane Roar at Allianz Stadium, we take a look at the major talking points heading into the match.
Olyroos are back
Sydney FC welcome back promising young defender Alex Gersbach, whose absence was certainly felt against Melbourne Victory last time out. The 18-year-old is touted as the best young left-back in Australia, with the Olyroo a contender for young footballer of the year, along with Brisbane duo Jamie MacLaren and Brandon Borrello. Gersbach needs to retain his focus for the Sky Blues (despite question marks over his future) upon his return to the side, which may prove the difference between their nervous last outing, and a confident display this weekend.
Sydney’s “anti-football”
Last time Sydney and Brisbane met at Allianz Stadium, Roar coach John Aloisi accused the home side of playing “anti-football” following a dull stalemate, dictated heavily by Sydney’s defensive tactics. With very little changing at Moore Park since that clash another top six rival, in Kevin Muscat, saw Graham Arnold’s negative approach again a hot topic. Although a defensive based set up has seen the home side suffer just three defeats this season, and boast the best defensive record, could the pressure to attack combined with a diminished Roar front line and floundering defence see the perfect opportunity for Arnold’s men to put in a more attacking display?
Brisbane’s character and depth
While Sydney are welcoming the return of their Olyroo defender, Brisbane will be happy to see their own young internationals MacLaren, Borrello and James Donachie return to the fray. Although their return to the side is a positive for Roar, their struggles in their absence is deeply concerning. During the Olyroos’ failed Olympic campaign they relied on the likes of Henrique to fill the goal void – something he failed to manage – and in doing so highlighted the issues with Brisbane’s squad depth. Saturday night’s visitors have lacked mental strength, unable to show the dogged fight of a true Championship contender. Heavy defeats to Victory and Adelaide United saw them concede eight goals in their past two games, something Aloisi will happen doesn’t affect their mentality.
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