3 minute read
A snapshot of round 15 of the A-League Men when Melbourne Victory returned to winning ways while Melbourne City delivered a statement thrashing of Macarthur FC.
THEY SAID IT: "It's up to players not to be complacent and take the next game as the most important game in their life. If we can manage that then there is no ceiling - we can keep improving." - interim coach Rado Vidosic after Melbourne City thrashed Macarthur FC 6-1 to continue their charge towards the premiership.
MAN OF THE WEEK: Richard van der Venne was the star of City's rout. The Dutchman scored an impressive hat-trick as City pulled out all the party tricks, including a sensational long-range strike for his third goal.
TALKING POINT: Two red cards marred an entertaining clash between Sydney FC and Central Coast. The Sky Blues wouldn't have been happy when Rhyan Grant was giving his marching orders but a straight red card to Mariners defender Brian Kaltak looked far more dubious.
STAT ATTACK: Macarthur have never beaten Melbourne City in six attempts since joining the league. City are the only team yet to lose to the Bulls.
BEAT THAT: Jake Brimmer just has a way with free kicks. The Victory midfielder stepped up for a set piece against Wellington and brilliantly steered the ball into the top corner to give them a 2-1 lead. Victory went on to win 3-1 in an important breakthrough.
UNDER PRESSURE: Brisbane's early-season defensive resolve appears to have deserted them in the last few weeks. Warren Moon's side have conceded six goals in their last two games, and after Saturday's loss have failed to win in their last five. It doesn't get much easier for the Roar because they will have to try and keep the free-scoring Mariners at bay on Friday.
UP NEXT: Central Coast will look to get back to winning ways when they head north to face Brisbane on Friday. Saturday's fixture list is headlined by a spicy Sydney derby as Adelaide United head to face Western United and Perth Glory welcome Melbourne City to Macedonia Park. Newcastle host Melbourne Victory and Wellington are away to Macarthur in Sunday's games.
