- Video
-
Club Roar
Captured a great grassroots sporting moment? We want to see it!Content Collections
The Roar Community
- Join
- Login
The spotlight is squarely on the Melbourne Victory in Football Federation Australia’s new crackdown on on-field discipline.
No wonder Queensland coach Frank Farina wants dormant Roar firebrand Danny Tiatto to re-think his plan to erupt in today’s clash with the Victory.
A frustrated Tiatto warned this week that he would return to his “old ways” this weekend.
The former Socceroo believes curbing his aggressive style this season has hurt not only his form but also that of the Roar.
But by rights, Melbourne is the last place Tiatto should be thinking of pushing the envelope.
The first-placed Victory are under the microscope after striker Ney Fabiano and goalkeeper Michael Theoklitos copped red cards in the past two games.
Tiatto has received just one yellow card in this season’s five games to date – however, Queensland have won just once.
In contrast, Tiatto was cautioned five times, sent off once and suspended after a video review last season.
Farina admitted he would talk to Tiatto to ensure he wouldn’t be adding to that infamous record at Melbourne.
“He’s looking a bit aggro at the moment. No, look, he will be fine,” Farina laughed.
“I will have a chat with him when we get to Melbourne.”
But Farina did not believe Tiatto had toned down his approach this season.
“He’s most probably going cold turkey because he hasn’t had a yellow (card) for a while,” Farina laughed.
“I’ve said to him before you don’t have to get a yellow to show us that you are playing well.
“But I think he has been playing well for us.
“He’s a 100 per center, he never backs down. That’s the way he has been his whole career – you are not going to change that.
“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. His aggression is what has got him here now – (but) I’m very comfortable with Danny and the way he plays.”
Tiatto has overcome a back complaint while Roar striker Charlie Miller (groin) has travelled with the team to Melbourne.
Farina said it was unlikely there would be any changes to the Roar outfit (5th; 1-2-2 record) that was beaten 1-0 by a late goal to the Newcastle Jets last week.
Melbourne (1st; 3-2-0) this week brought Leigh Broxham into the squad while Victory coach Ernie Merrick said he was prepared to use Tom Pondeljak as an additional striker if needed late in the match.
Lou Acevski comes in on loan as a back-up goalkeeper after Michael Theoklitos was suspended for two matches.
Are you the ultimate team manager? Pick your own superstar team and go head to head with other football fans for glory and cash prizes on Draftstars. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Set a deposit limit.