Sydney slick as Auckland get off to perfect ALM start
ROUND ONE OF THE A-LEAGUE MEN COMPETITION AT A GLANCE:
THEY SAID IT: “We’re getting to the point, when are they actually going to take their opportunity?” - Melbourne City coach Aurelio Vidmar explains his decision to back 21-year-old Patrick Beach as his first choice No. 1 ahead of veteran goalkeeper Jamie Young.
MAN OF THE WEEK: Patryk Klimala - Foreign strikers often take a while to find their feet in the A-League Men but on first glances Klimala looks a real find for Sydney FC after setting up one goal and scoring the winner on his debut in their 2-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers. If Sydney are to fulfil their promise as a title contender, Klimala will have a major say in their fortunes.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.TALKING POINT: Alen Stajcic raised eyebrows by leaving star recruit Juan Mata and Swedish striker Marcus Antonsson on his Western Sydney bench in his side’s season opener. The Wanderers struggled to create chances against Sydney and if they are to be a force Stajcic surely can’t continue to use two of his biggest names as impact subs.
STAT ATTACK: Brisbane defender Harry Van Der Saag became just the second player in ALM history to score an opponent’s first-ever goal. The Roar man turned a Hirokai Sakai cross into his own net and claim his place as Auckland FC’s first scorer.
BEAT THAT: Van Der Saag’s own goal was one of two scored in Auckland’s inaugural 2-0 win but the best came from journeyman Logan Rogerson. The All Whites winger, who has spent parts of his career in Germany, Finland and Armenia, capped off the Kiwi newcomers’ perfect afternoon with an effortless second-half finish.
UNDER PRESSURE: As far as debut games go, things couldn’t have been worse for Perth boss David Zdrilic. After he finally took the plunge into management, his Glory side didn’t look like they were interested during Sunday’s 6-1 away defeat to Macarthur.
UP NEXT: Macarthur host Newcastle in Friday’s standalone game. On Saturday, there’s a Melbourne derby, Wellington are away to Perth and Adelaide kick off their campaign at home to the Central Coast Mariners. Steve Corica faces Sydney FC for the first time as Auckland boss on Sunday, while the Wanderers are away to Western United.
