Not so long ago, Gold Coast coach Miron Bleiberg admits he would have found a way to call off an A-League derby with defending champions Brisbane Roar.
But Bleiberg’s cellar dwellers suddenly fancy their chances of breaking a two-year drought against their once-dominant rivals at Skilled Park on Boxing Day.
Bleiberg even went as far as saying he would back his side against any Roar team without Thomas Broich, Matt Smith and Henrique – the key trio who form part of the champions’ long injury list.
Indeed, Bleiberg could be forgiven for not being his characteristic upbeat self given his side haven’t tasted victory against the Roar since the corresponding clash two years ago – a 5-1 drubbing of Brisbane now known as the Boxing Day Massacre.
Four straight losses have dropped the once mighty Roar to second spot on the ladder while United are on a two-match unbeaten run, including last round’s 3-0 thumping of Adelaide United that sealed Reds coach Rini Coolen’s fate.
“If we had to play them after they beat Adelaide 7-1 (on October 29) I would have probably called it off for some excuse,” Bleiberg said of Brisbane.
“I am happy with the timing.
“(And) football is about timing. Three weeks ago we were deep at the bottom and they were the all-conquering Roar.
“But momentum has changed. They have come back to earth a bit.
“I wouldn’t say (Roar should be) scared but a bit more worried – I feel more confident.”
Roar coach Ange Postecoglou said on Thursday skipper Matt Smith was a chance of returning and ex-Socceroo Shane Stefanutto (concussion) would be back but again ruled a line through Broich, Henrique and James Meyer.
It was music to Bleiberg’s ears.
“I will tell Ange straight if he has Broich, Henrique and Matt Smith I give myself 49 per cent to win the game – and without those three I give myself 51 per cent. That’s a big difference,” he said.
Postecoglou again reiterated that he would not change his tactics despite coming under fire for a horror 13-day run in which Brisbane went from holders of top-level Australian sport’s greatest unbeaten streak to being the A-League’s No.2 side.
“I know there is a bit of hysteria about what is going on with us at the moment – that’s external,” he said.
“As long as I am in charge we will keep doing what we are doing.”
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