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McDonald ready to make Roar A-L return

3 minute read

Brisbane Roar have been boosted by the return of veteran Scott McDonald from injury for Saturday's A-League clash with Western Sydney.

Scott McDonald.
Scott McDonald. Picture: Christopher Lee/Getty Images

Ex-Socceroo Scott McDonald is set to make a timely return from injury for Brisbane's A-League clash with Western Sydney on Saturday.

McDonald has been sidelined since late February after injuring his hamstring in a goalless draw with Sydney FC.

In the 37-year-old's absence the Roar's winless streak has extended to seven matches, with the team scoring just three goals in that time.

McDonald however was at training on Friday and Roar coach Warren Moon confirmed the veteran will be involved in some capacity against the Wanderers.

"We've missed Scotty. He's integral to what we do in terms of how we want to play," Moon said.

"He's obviously that experienced head in the final third where he can keep the ball for us and moreso than anything, I think that's what we've missed."

Experienced defender Scott Neville is also set to come into the Roar's matchday squad after his return from a loan spell in India but central defender Macaulay Gillesphey is suspended after his late red card in the 1-1 draw with Wellington last month.

Moon said it was a relief for the club when they received confirmation the game would go ahead as planned following the three-day COVID lockdown for greater Brisbane during the week.

With the state's NRL and AFL teams all playing away this weekend, the Roar boss is hopeful a bumper crowd will travel to Moreton Daily Stadium as his team aims to end their long wait for a win.

"I'd love to see a packed stadium on Saturday. Get as many people there to create an intimidating atmosphere and cheer us on to get the three points," he said.

The Wanderers head to Queensland on the back of a disappointing 4-1 loss to Melbourne City.

Coach Carl Robinson has included Olyroos defender Tass Mourdoukoutas and midfielder Jordan O'Doherty in his squad for what will be the first meeting between the two clubs this season.

KEY MATCH STATS

* Socceroo Mitchell Duke has been involved in four of the Wanderers' past six goals, scoring three and assisting in the other.

* In 28 matches between these two clubs, both teams have 10 wins apiece with the other eight matches drawn.

* Golgol Mebrahtu's late equaliser against Wellington was his first A-League goal in eight years, having last scored in the competition on March 16, 2013.

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