Lowe’s gamble pays off…and then it backfires
Swimming against the tide in the first half, Lowe made a big decision at half time, and moved his best defender Michael Thwaite from centre back to centre midfield. It was a bold move, given Brisbane had dominated the first half and had constantly put a Glory defence – who were already missing Dino Djulbic – under the pump. However, Thwaite’s midfield presence helped stem the Brisbane tide in the second half. His communication and organizational skills significantly improved the midfield defensively, whilst his influence on the ball helped Perth work their way back into the game. However, his absence in defence was finally felt when Hervas’ canny flick split the two young centre backs, Anthony Golec and Alex Grant, and allowed Henrique to net the winner.
Brisbane’s Spanish duo sizzle at Suncorp
Sunday marked the first A-League game the Roar’s two Spanish off-season signings, Corona and Javier Hervas, had played together. Corona has started the season strongly, immediately winning over fans with his calmness on the ball and tidy distribution, but his compatriot has spent most of the season injured. Brisbane coach John Aloisi even admitted post-game Hervas had not played in pre-season due to injury and his late cameo was his first taste of action since he signed. Luckily for Hervas, it didn’t take him long to make an impact. Coming on as a substitute, he immediately capitalised on a botched Ante Covic clearance to supply a deft flick for Henrique to run onto and score what turned out to be the winner. It’s early days yet, but the two Spaniards are looking hotter than chorizo.
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