Perth Glory 2 - 1 Brisbane Roar

In a match largely dominated by Perth Glory at nib Stadium, Brisbane Roar were choked of ideas, rarely creating enough of substance to down a strong looking Glory side led by Tony Popovic.

Chris Oikonomidis is a serious contender for a Socceroos bolter spot. With Daniel Arzani likely out through injury, the opportunity for the former Lazio man to present his abilities was tonight, and he no doubt impressed.

Brisbane rarely demonstrated any urgency offensively, struggling to provide workable opportunities for the likes of Adam Taggart and Henrique to create something for their team.

A late resurgence - and red card for Perth - was not enough for Brisbane, despite Henrique and Taggart linking up well (with the latter earning and dispatching a subsequently earned penalty) it was too little too late as Perth kept the three points.

Perth Glory

Liam Reddy – 6

Rarely tested and therefore not given a real opportunity to recreate his iconic run out of goal from a few seasons back. Although, that likely would not be the right way to impress his manager Popovic. Sent the wrong way when facing Adam Taggart’s penalty.

Tomislav Mrcela – 5

Often given license to dictate play from the defence in a demonstration of his excellent passing range. Had to give away a penalty late on as his side’s simple mistake gave the Roar a chance for some late drama. Earnt a red card for his troubles.

Shane Lowry – 7

Almost gifted the Roar an equaliser as he intercepted a cross from McKay that nearly found its way in to the back of his own net. A good, no-nonsense showing otherwise.

Alex Grant – 6

Rarely untested on the left side as much of Brisbane’s attacks came down the opposite wing.

Ivan Franjic – 6.5

The former Torpedo Moscow man constantly aided his team defensively, assisting Mrcela in facing up against the majority of Brisbane attacks that came down his flank. Presented himself as a substantial option on the wing as well.

Neil Kilkenny – 7

Effective in providing relief in midfield, shaping up his side’s better moments by taking initiative in pushing the ball through to the wingbacks and attackers.

Juande – 7

Provided a strong defensive edge alongside Kilkenny’s suave passing whilst putting together some good plays of his own accord.

Jason Davidson – 7.5

Maintained his impressive form of the first three rounds, crossing well and serving as a great weapon in attack. Forces one to ponder if he deserves another opportunity in a Socceroos shirt, having been left back during the Socceroos’ Asian Cup triumph. Came off with a possible injury, which was a slight woe on an overwhelmingly positive night for Perth.

Joel Chianese – 6

Impressed in the few moments he was given on the ball, especially as he drove at the Brisbane defence with enthusiasm.

Chris Ikonomidis – 8

Brisbane gave him the time, space and opportunity to manoeuvre, which he exploited to great success, notching an assist for Keogh’s opener. Kept the Brisbane defence chasing him constantly as he weaved through them with ease. Another potential contender for a Socceroos recall.    

Andy Keogh – 7.5

 

The in form Irishman has scored three goals in three games, the first time he has done so since the 2014/15 season where he first made his mark on the league.

His on pitch combinations and link up with Oikonomidis presents itself as a partnership with deadly potential.

SUBS:

Scott Neville – 7

Within a minute of his arrival, his cross caused mayhem for Brisbane as Keogh’s deflected shot took a final touch off of O’Toole. A confident impact despite being put on as a left back. Cruelly handed a yellow card despite being on the end of a sliding challenge from Bautheac.

Brandon Wilson – 5

At fault in giving away the ball for Brisbane to find a slim avenue back in to the game.

Fabio Ferreira – N/A

Not given much time to change the game.

Brisbane Roar

Jamie Young – 7

Leapt wonderfully to deny Keogh an early opener, finishing the match with a number of saves. Would have been dismayed at the manner of which the second goal was scored, having saved brilliantly only for the final touch to come off of the youngster O’Toole.

Jack Hingert – 5

Was not found enough by his teammates to have a significant effect in attack as he was mainly kept to defensive duties.

Jacob Pepper – 5

Arguably too passive at times in how he handled Andy Keogh. His performance was a reminder that he does not fit as a centre back, with his best work being done shielding the defence as a midfielder.

Avraam Papadopoulos – 7

Stampeded over the Glory players, displaying a dominance needed in a Roar backline that seemed bereft of a leader at times. Competed significantly well aerially, never leaving Jamie Young uncomfortable in goal.

Connor O’Toole – 6

Commanding in his runs down the wing, appearing to be a rare outlet for his side that lacked ideas going forward. Well and truly unlucky to score an own goal of that fashion, considering he was having a solid game at left back.

Thomas Kristensen – 5

Had a tendency to misjudge some of his passes, often overplaying.

Matt McKay – 6

Became the third player to reach 250 A-League appearances, a few hours after Andrew Durante hit the milestone with Wellington Phoenix. No matter the result, McKay’s effort on the pitch can never be discounted.

Eric Bautheac – 5

Whilst not a prolific goal scorer (even during his time in France’s Ligue 1), Bautheac is the hub of Brisbane’s creativity. If they are to find more success, they need to ensure that the Frenchman has better space and time to work with.

Began to shine in the second half as his team began to make their presence known.

Alex Lopez – 5.5

Exhibited some lovely passes in Brisbane’s attacking build up.

Henrique – 6

Chased the ball constantly, never seizing or resting. The fan favourite is a real asset to John Aloisi’s side despite his age. Worked well to reclaim possession and play through Taggart in the lead up to the penalty.

Adam Taggart – 6.5

As a former A-League Golden Boot winner Taggart is well aware of the pressure that is on him to perform. His desire to link up intelligently with his teammates, demonstrated against Perth, shows he is more than working hard to hit a run of form reflective of his abilities. Did well to earn a penalty late on and dispatch the following spot kick.

SUBS:

Tobias Mikkelsen – 5

The Dane rarely influenced the match following his arrival until after Taggart’s penalty. Such effort was ultimately futile.

Dane Ingham – N/A

Brought on to provide a pacey outlet on the wing as his side searched for an equaliser.

Nick D’Agostino – N/A

Lacked time to make a real impact, beyond clattering with Reddy.