Melbourne City FC will look for back to back wins when they face Brisbane Roar in Round 5 of the A-League. We look at the five thing to look forward to ahead of the contest.
The Sunshine State
Head Coach Warren Joyce and his men will be looking to claim all three points when they head to the capital of Australia’s sunshine state to face Brisbane Roar.
Prior to the international break, City responded to their first loss of the season with a comprehensive 2-0 win over Wellington Phoenix. Determined to extend their winning run, the boys in City blue will be looking to do everything in their power to get over the line against the Roar.
It’s never easy at Suncorp Stadium, but after a solid block of training, there’s no doubt our boys will be up for the challenge. City will be looking to go three games unbeaten against the Roar, a feat they have only achieved once before.
De Laet’s on fire
He hasn’t been here for long, but Ritchie De Laet has wasted no time making an impact on Australian soil.
The 29-year-old has not only found the back of the net on two occasions from his right-back position, including a wonder-strike against the Nix, but he’s also displayed his reliability at the back, his exquisite skill set and his raw speed.
With a wealth of experience at the highest level, De Laet will be looking to continue his strong start in the A-League and help his teammates strive towards achieving the ultimate goal, starting with three-points against Brisbane.
Roar record
Melbourne City will have the chance to make it three wins in a row against the Roar on Saturday, a feat that has only been achieved once before.
2014/15 was the last time we recorded a trio of wins against this week’s opponents and City will look to repeat that feat at a ground that has been a surprisingly happy hunting ground for the visitors.
The unsung hero
With two spectacular individual efforts scored in our last match, it’s easy to forget the overall performance of the team.
21-year-old speedster Lachie Wales caused all sorts of problems for the Wellington defence with his unpredictability, speed and skill over the ball.
The attacker registered one assist and created three chances, more than anyone else on the pitch. The most notable one of those chances was his superb backheel which played Fornaroli through one-on-one with the ‘keeper.
Brisbane’s defence will be looking to nullify Wales’ impact, as he looks to create openings for his teammates.
A chance to start the run
City will look to bank valuable points in the coming weeks, as the busy Christmas and New Year’s period fast approaches. With up to three fixtures scheduled in one week during January, now is the time to make the most of a fast start to the season.
Currently sitting in third position on the ladder, City will be eager to cement their spot in the top four before the gruelling festive period begins.
It won’t be easy though, as they come up against a Brisbane Roar outfit determined to register their first win of the 2018/19 campaign in front of their loyal home fans.
City face Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday 24 November, kick 7:50pm.
