A-League 2020: Roar coach Moon restores state spirit that was lost under Fowler

The Roar’s decision to go local in appointing Warren Moon as Robbie Fowler’s replacement has led to a revival of Queensland spirit.

Roar defender Corey Brown (left) tackles Adelaide United star Riley McGree. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

BRISBANE centurion Corey Brown admits he was shocked by Robbie Fowler’s Roar departure, but has praised new coach Warren Moon for instilling the famous Queensland spirit that had been largely forgotten under the Liverpool legend’s reign.

Fowler was in charge for less than a season at the Roar before deciding not to return to Australia for the A-League’s resumption after the COVID-19-enforced suspension.

Having gone global in hiring Fowler, Brisbane officials took the opposite approach in appointing his successor, with Roar foundation player Moon having cut his coaching teeth with local clubs Easts, Peninsula and Lions, where he enjoyed NPL Queensland title success.

Life after Fowler started on the wrong foot for the Roar, who were beaten 1-0 by Adelaide United at Cbus Super Stadium on July 19.

Scott McDonald (left) and Corey Brown celebrate a Brisbane Roar goal. Picture: AAP Image/Dan Peled

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But ahead of Wednesday night’s clash against Melbourne Victory at Bankwest Stadium, Brown said Moon – elevated to the Roar top job after serving as the club academy’s general manager – was the right man for the gig.

“Robbie leaving was a bit of a shock to all of us, but Warren’s come in brilliantly,” said wing-back Brown, who is set to make his 100th A-League appearance for the Roar on Wednesday against his former club.

“He’s brought a bit of that Queensland spirit and passion back to the team and the players. That’s something I’m very passionate about and I’m enjoying it so far.

“It wasn’t a focal point (under Fowler) and it’s something that the new boss has definitely instilled in us.

“It’s something I can get around being a passionate Queenslander myself.”

Moon made no apologies for insisting his team and the club show pride in flying Queensland’s A-League flag.

“We’re a one-team state,” Moon said.

“I believe in engaging our fans, our community, our stakeholders, and I believe in the talent we have in Queensland.

“Corey being a Queenslander ... he can identify with that, but I think through our club now you can see we have a real Queensland feel to what we’re trying to achieve.”

That “identity” includes a brand of attacking football Queenslanders can identify with.

“We have to respect the good work Robbie and (departed technical director) Tony (Grant) did,” Moon said

“They put in a really good defensive platform, so you’ve got something already in place. All I’m doing is looking to add, how we can be more attacking with and without the ball.”

If the fourth-placed Roar consider themselves genuine title contenders, they must dispose of a depleted and struggling Victory.

“We want to every game. One thing I know is that the boys are very confident,” Moon said.

“We certainly respect Victory and the threats they have with some of their key players ... but we’re really confident about what we’re doing and what we’re doing well.”