Ball Watching round 7: Glen Moss, Alex Baumjohann, Roy Krishna produce starring roles in excellent A-League round
Massive upsets, classy saves, midfield brilliance, memorable braces ... it’s certainly been a big A-League weekend as the likes of Glen Moss, Alex Baumjohann and Roy Krishna came to the fore.
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Massive upsets, classy saves, midfield brilliance, memorable braces ... it’s certainly been a big A-League weekend as the likes of Glen Moss, Alex Baumjohann and Roy Krishna came to the fore.
The moment:
Newcastle goalkeeper Glen Moss’ save to deny Brisbane Roar marquee man Eric Bautheac at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday was not only superb but also proved to be crucial. At that stage the Roar were looking superior but the tide soon turned, with goals either side of half-time securing the Jets a 2-0 win.
The drama:
A-League expansion was a hot topic over the weekend, with the new FFA board meeting this week to hopefully give the nod to at least two new teams for next season. If it does become a 12-team competition, let’s hope the A-League isn’t reduced to 22 rounds. That’s not enough games. Perhaps the better solution is add four new teams. That way a home-and-away season of 26 rounds can be played.
Player of the week:
Alex Baumjohann. The German midfielder was brilliant for Western Sydney in the Wanderers’ 2-0 win over Central Coast Mariners at Spotless Stadium on Friday night. Baumjohann’s passing range and vision were first class, and the highlights of an otherwise ordinary game. If the Wanderers are to play finals football this season, it will be because of Baumjohann.
A round to remember for:
Roy Krishna. The Fijian striker celebrated gaining New Zealand citizenship by scoring twice for Wellington Phoenix in their 3-1 upset away win over Sydney FC on Saturday at Jubilee Stadium.
A round to forget for:
Brisbane Roar. They weren’t good enough in losing 2-0 to Newcastle at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday. More was expected in response to a 2-1 loss to Adelaide United the previous week, but it was a forgettable performance. It’s been a disappointing start to the season for Brisbane.
Talking Point 1:
From the six remaining bidders, which two should gain entry into an expanded A-League next season?
Make it 4. Canberra, SW sydney, and the two melb groups
— Nik (@nik_olalala) December 9, 2018
Expand four, 14 team league
— RyeRover (@RoverRye) December 9, 2018
1.Canberrahttps://t.co/3dFukTT66n 11 (South East Melb)
3.Western Melbourne Group
4.MacArthur South West Sydney
I honestly think @CBRRegionHAL and one of the 3 Melbourne bids. I would then give @SWSFootball a provisional licence for entry into the @ALeague for the 2020/21 season, along with a second Brisbane side
— Jarrad (@084_j) December 9, 2018
Defo Canberra
— Warren Drury (@WarrenDrury) December 9, 2018
Smfc and Canberra Marco. Do you agree with Mick's analysis?
— Heinsight (@andyheinrichs) December 9, 2018
Canberra and South for 19/20. SWS and Team 11 for 20/21 and West Melb to replace City. They’re irrelevant.
— Joseph Cavoli (@JoeyCavoli80) December 9, 2018
Canberra & SWS ( Stadium redy). Then 2x Melbourne (less time without stadiums).
— Cass (@Cassorelli) December 9, 2018
Put them all in a 2nd Division and have 2 join in 19/20, another 2 in 20/21, then ProRel in 21/22. Plenty of time to prepare for changes, years if excitement - let the cream rise to the top, whether they be new or existing clubs.
— con*archis (@goldenarchis) December 9, 2018
Didn’t someone once sayâ€Fish were there are fishes†so realistically I think Sydney and Melbourne.
— Paul Schiavo (@pschiavo_) December 9, 2018
Talking Point 2:
Should Sydney FC chase the services of their former striker Bobo?
Reckon it was a Booboo letting Bobo go? https://t.co/OlQNObY98P
— Mick Attarian (@pmens72) December 9, 2018
Most surprising:
Perth Glory coach Tony Popovic’s decision to start defender Matthew Spiranovic against Melbourne City at nib Stadium on Saturday night raised eyebrows considering his lack of recent football. Spiranovic only lasted 30 minutes before being replaced due to a hamstring injury.
Least surprising:
Adelaide United’s failure to score against Melbourne Victory at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night. The Reds continue to battle on admirably without a genuine centre forward but something has to give soon. Baba Diawara’s ongoing injury problems should have Adelaide coach Marco Kurz ready to delve into the transfer market next month to bring goalscorer to his club. Former Sydney marksman Bobo is seemingly available.
Under pressure:
Steve Corica.
Sydney FC’s unexpected stumble at home against Wellington Phoenix on Saturday has put Sky Blues coach Corica under the microscope. It was never going to be easy for “Bimbi” to follow in the footsteps of Graham Arnold, who had great success with Sydney. Losing to the Phoenix at home and conceding three goals before half-time isn’t acceptable for a club of Sydney’s stature.
Originally published as Ball Watching round 7: Glen Moss, Alex Baumjohann, Roy Krishna produce starring roles in excellent A-League round