The new being Adam Sarota and Luke Brattan. Sarota, who this blog has constantly pilloried as a lost caused, proved us wrong in fine style against Perth. Finally deployed in what looks to be his best position alongside the ever improving David Dodd (also much maligned on TRD) in central midfield.
Dodd and Sarota were pivotal in a youthful midfield which held firm against a vastly more experienced Perth lineup until the fashionably haired darling of these pages, Luke Brattan was deployed, within minutes, having lost possession several times, Brattan failed to close down the perth attack, a second young Roar (perhaps Nicholls??) also stood off, and suddenly a measured cross was released and Perth were level.
So what of Miller and Reddy? Good riddance,we say. It is no secret that TRD has never been a fan of Reddy, who makes as many gaffs as saves. Miller, for all his skill and entertainment value, was not part of the Roar's impressive drive towards the finals last season, when Nicholls stepped up to cover his absence so effectively.
This season Nicholls has been asked to play out of position more often than not, either on the right of midfield, as a striker or in a deeper role. Miller's absence will allow Nicholls to be deployed in his natural position in the hole behind the striker/s.
Miller for his part will make the perfect pantomime villain at the Gold Coast, another chapter in a rivalry which is fast moving from the realms of commercial spin to genuine difference in approach.
Under Postacoglou's management the Roars look much more structurally sound and tactically astute. The message for the players appears to be that nothing less that absolute professionalism will be tolerated. It is a message that should make the fans feel more respected.
Keep it up Ange, so far so good. Watch out Adelaide, bring on the top six.
'It is a message that should make the fans feel more respected.'
Hmm. Be nice to think so. I went to the Roar Christmas party. The highlight were to be presentations by the Chair and Coach. Neither turned up and with no explanations. I didn't feel respected.
Posted by: john | December 13, 2009 at 08:15 AM
God, that is weird... and not really good enough. Speaking of not good enough... yesterday was a bit frustrating. Like the old days just not finishing the chances.
Still, I liked what postacoglou said in response to millers's "fun" comment - something to the effect that miller should ask the fans how much fun they have been having. Could not agree more.
As for the party, that is just inexplicable... when will the club learn to value the few fans left. Lowest ever crowd on Saterday. Wake up Roars!!!
Posted by: Ed | December 13, 2009 at 05:49 PM
hi ed,
was it ange that decided to drop malcolm or was it frank? i forgot.
that could be brisbane`s decision of the year for mine.
clayton
Posted by: clayton | December 19, 2009 at 11:18 AM
all Ange, think his last game was the one that Rado picked the team for - perhaps he played on more under ange... but none since. I agree, best decision. Devere has been fantastic last few games.
Posted by: Ed | December 19, 2009 at 12:22 PM
Yes it was Rado. Malcolm got a broken nose - we all cheered (not really) but were happy he isn't coming back. BTW Moore brought Malcolm in.
Posted by: john | December 19, 2009 at 08:27 PM
Well there is reason enough to think Ange is on the right track. I was a bit surprised when the roar bought him in and was not a fan of the way farina was moved on, but to be far that is not Postacoglou's fault.
He has come in and changed they style of play dramatically, the tempo is slower and it is not as flashy (Yet), but the roar have been much more solid at the back (massive gaffs aside). At the end of the day they look much more likely to make the top six than they looked a month ago.
As for Moore... I would like to think that he is professional enough to get on with the job and work with the gaffer to implement Ange's vision. If not, then its time for him to follow his mates out the door.
Posted by: Ed | December 20, 2009 at 12:42 PM