It’ll be a battle between two of the Hyundai A-League’s top three teams when United host the Roar on Saturday, and with top spot potentially up for grabs, these three Brisbane men could be in typically fine form given what’s up for grabs.
Jamie Maclaren
At just 22-years-old, Jamie Maclaren has consistently lit up the Hyundai A-League stage throughout Brisbane’s 2015/16 season. Leading the line 16 times for the Roar, missing some matches whilst on international duty with the Olyroos, Maclaren has been on the score sheet 12 times himself but contributed to 15 goals in total – almost half of his side’s entire goal tally this campaign. Deadly with either foot, marking Maclaren has proved difficult for a number of defenders this season and will again be one of the main dangermen for the Roar when they face Guillermo Amor’s United.
Round 20:
Goals: 1
Total Shots: 3
Shots on Target: 2
Passing Accuracy: 70%
Thomas Broich
It is always hard to go past Thomas Broich when discussing the most threatening Roar players, such is his impact on John Aloisi’s team when Broich is in form. Still regarded as one of the most talented footballers to have ever played in the Hyundai A-League, Broich’s qualities are so extensive, in offence in particular, that he is still regularly the man Brisbane looks to for inspiration, despite being 35-years-old. Kept relatively quiet for his high standards last week when the Roar were battered 6-3 by Perth Glory, Broich will want to make amends with a big showing at Coopers, a stadium that’s been a relatively happy hunting ground for Brisbane in the past.
Round 20:
Passing Accuracy: 68.4%
Shot Assists: 1
Total Crosses: 1
Total Shots: 1
Corona
Brisbane’s veteran pass-master, Corona, seemingly has the ability to dictate the tempo of a football match for fun, completing the most passes by any player this season with 1,349. His elegance on the ball and immense range of passing can often control the way in which the Roar play and if he’s feeling good against the Reds, Corona can definitely cause problems. United’s midfield will be kept busy with his movement, whilst its defence must keep aware of the balls he attempts to thread – both during open play and from set pieces.
Round 20:
Passing Accuracy: 74%
Total Passes: 50
Shot Assists: 1
Crosses: 4
Adelaide United will face Brisbane Roar in Round 21 of the Hyundai A-League 2015/16 season on Saturday, 27 February at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 4.45pm ACDT.
