Opinion
Round 26 of the A-League had 10 goals in the first two games. In three out of six matches where a team claimed three points, the winning team had less possession than their opponents.
Here’s who made the cut in Round 26.
Formation: 3-4-3
Freke made the most of an opportunity to be in the starting line-up for the Brisbane Roar. His opportunities have been few and far between; Round 26 against Melbourne Victory was just his fourth game of the season.
He made four saves including a one-on-one stop from a shot by Fernando Romero in the 49th minute. The save changed the game as the Brisbane Roar scored the only goal of the game five minutes later.
Aldred put in a typical Tom Aldred performance. He was there when called upon and put his body on the line for the team. He could never be accused of shirking a battle. He had eight blocks and four headed clearances and led from the front as per usual.
The most notable defensive work Aldred did was blocking a shot from Melbourne Victory youngster Jordi Valadon that came in the 36th minute. He made four passes into the final third and even had a shot on target.
Kaltak was a presence in the heart of the Central Coast Mariners defence; they’re a different team with him in it. Kaltak curtailed some of Adelaide United attacks through sheer grit and determination. Along with five clearances, he had three headed clearances and three interceptions. He passed the ball around well and made four passes into the final third.
(Photo by Steve Christo – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)
Aspropotamitis was brought off the bench at half-time and he had an impact on the game. He helped steady the ship and brought a calmness and composure that Macarthur FC needed. Aspropotamitis won two ground duels, two aerial duels and had two clearances. He moved the ball around accurately and had eight passes into the final third.
Pierias was outstanding for Western United, as his pace was a real weapon. He provided the assist for the goal scored by Noah Botic in the 53rd minute, which game Western United a 2-1 lead. He was involved in most of the chances going forward; his pace was electric, as it contributed to Mark Beevers of Perth Glory being sent off. Beevers received a yellow card and a second yellow card in the 57th and 59th minute.
He was humble in his post-match interview: “I’m very happy to finish with a win for the team.”
Ugarkovic put in a good shift for Wellington Phoenix. He curtailed the influence that Macarthur FC had when in possession; he won four out of five ground duels and all four aerial duels that he had. He also had a block and two clearances. Ugarkovic passed the ball exquisitely and proved why he is rumoured to be going to Melbourne City.
O’Shea had a good game for Brisbane Roar in a position that suits him. He looked dangerous whenever he was on the ball and looking to create openings. O’Shea had two shots and 13 passes into the final third. It’s amazing what a change of role can do for a player; he is much more damaging playing attacking midfield compared to playing more of a defensive role.
N’Kololo put in a good display as he was a constant threat in the final third. He was rewarded with getting into good positions when he made the score 2-0l in favour of Central Coast Mariners in the 41st minute, against Adelaide United. It’s a credit to him that he is performing as such a high level as he works extremely hard and has the skills to go with it.
Lolley performed well for Sydney FC as he finished the game against Newcastle Jets with four shots and one assist. He provided the assist for Patrick Wood in the 63rd minute.
(Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
Lolley always looked like he knew what he was doing; he made insightful runs and dribbles as well as passed the ball as if time stood still for him. He values his position in the team as he even worked hard defensively as he made a couple of tackles.
Tulio was calm, composed and clinical. He scored a goal in the 23rd minute that made the score 1-0 in favour of Central Coast Mariners against Adelaide United. His second goal gave the Mariners a 3-0 lead in the 57th minute. He also made five passes into the final third. Tulio is a special talent and we are lucky to have him in the A-League.
Tilio was arguably the best player in Round 26; he scored a brace against Western Sydney Wanderers. His first goal made the score 1-1 in the 49th minute and the second goal he scored was in the 93rd minute that gave Melbourne City a 3-2 lead. He had six shots and won a penalty in the 78th minute. Tilio showed why he is so highly regarded and looks in ominous form going into finals.
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