VAR will once again take all the headlines following a controversial call in Wellington Phoenix’s fclash with Melbourne City – but there was still entertainment on display for the right reasons.

Scott Galloway
Melbourne City coach Erick Mombaerts has introduced some interesting new tactics to the A-League this season. The most noticeable is when his full-backs come inwards to the middle of the pitch from their originally wide positions.
That’s exactly what prompted Galloway to make his angled dash as he drove at the Wellington defence, with their wingers unsure of whether to track the fullback or not. Then, with plenty of time and space around him, he launched a piledriver from some distance to give his team the lead.
Following the injury to key striker Jamie Maclaren, there were questions as to where the goals would come from. Galloway was probably not the answer people had in mind.
The former Adelaide man does not score many goals, but when he does, he sure does make them memorable. It seems like Mombaerts’ innovation might have created a way to get the best out of his right-back.

Samuel Silvera
Finally making his first start in the A-League following a fantastic pre-season, Silvera showed exactly what Alen Stajcic was missing out on in the early rounds as he charged Central Coast Mariners to an unlikely victory against the Premiership holders.
The teenager ran the Glory defence wild as he seared his way through defender after defender, earning himself a well-deserved first A-League goal. The winger stole the ball off the feet of Jacob Tratt deep in Perth territory, and then took a few touches towards the goal before firing a low curling drive which goalkeeper Liam Reddy could barely get a hand to.
The goal only lifted his belief further and he continued to be a constant threat to the Perth defence, even if he didn't add to his tally on the day.
This is hardly what Silvera expected when he joined the Mariners, but now that he’s got his chance, he’s making the most of it. He could very well be the next A-League superstar in the making.
Related Articles

Socceroo-in-waiting seals Championship deal

Fringe Socceroo swerves A-League to remain in Europe after Fulham exit
