The hosts scored three goals in 16 second-half minutes to turn a 3-1 deficit into a stunning 4-3 victory at Suncorp Stadium.

Maclaren, who scored Roar’s third, said they were determined to send a warning to potential Finals Series opponents.

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“We said at half-time teams are going to see, even if they’re in front at Suncorp, it’s going to be hard (to beat us),” Maclaren told Fox Sports.

“It’s good character from the boys and I’m proud of them.”

Maclaren’s second-half equaliser elevated his season tally to 19 goals, enough to share the Golden Boot with Besart Berisha.

While that marked his 50th Hyundai A-League goal, the 23-year-old missed a chance to become the season’s outright leading scorer with a failed penalty attempt in the 76th minute.

“Obviously I’m disappointed personally. I should have buried the penalty,” the Roar striker said.

“I’ve scored five (from the spot this season) and the penalty wasn’t good enough.

“It’s been a good season for me overall but for the boys it’s great to get the result and next week is important.”