The Roar's A-League Men tips and predictions: Round 26 - the jostle for finals positions is on in earnest
Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
Professional Footballers Australia has slammed Perth Glory owner Tony Sage for standing down his players, saying it’s an unlawful action that will have legal consequences.
Tensions over a new A-League pay deal have been simmering for days, with Sage criticising players for not accepting a 30 per cent cut to wages.
Sage threatened he would be left no choice but to stand down players if they continued to refuse the new deal, and he issued players with a stand-down notice on Tuesday morning.
The PFA released a statement saying it was an “unlawful action” and that they will pursue legal action on behalf of the players.
“If you want to own and run a football club, you’re going to need players,” PFA co-chief executive Beau Busch said.
“These guys have made great sacrifices for this club and this action creates further challenges and ongoing uncertainty.
“Across Australia and New Zealand, other clubs are doing their best to work with their players while we continue to seek a collective bargaining agreement.
“We need to work together to get football back on its feet, and frankly, this is unhelpful.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has left the A-League in huge financial strife, and there are grave fears for what the league will look like next season and beyond.
© AAP
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Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
Mathew Leckie played a pivotal part in Melbourne City claiming an 8-nil win; playing a role in several of his team's goals.
The loser of the Sydney Derby will be under immense pressure entering the final three matches of the season.
A good performance from Michael Ruhs, scoring twice to beat Macarthur and doubling his season goal tally in the process.
Sydney moved into fourth with their point but Glory's finals hopes are now officially extinguished.
Anthony Caceres is a player with immense talent and has a fantastic work rate, broke the deadlock against the Mariners in the 74th minute.