It’s been billed by some [likely Victory fans] as the best derby ever, and certainly the narrative had it all. A two goal lead – the most dangerous scoreline in sport as the cliche goes – being pegged back before a last gasp hit to seal a dramatic and famous win. We run the rule over some of the talking points from the contest.
Kevin Muscat may face selection dilemmas…
… After the rise of unlikely hero Thomas Deng, with the teenager shining at centre back and being named man of the match last night on his home debut. With Mathieu Delpierre the experienced head at the back, it will leave youngsters Deng, new man Giancarlo Gallifuoco and Nick Ansell – when he eventually returns from injury – battling for spots in defence. With Jason Geria and Scott Galloway also available at fullback, it leaves Muscat with a wealth of riches at the back.
You can do your best to keep Besart Berisha quiet…
… But you seemingly can’t keep him down for a full 90. He had been a peripheral figure for much of the contest, struggling to get the better of Patrick Kisnorbo. Yet his first warning shot was fired via a header that Thomas Sorensen just managed to tip over the bar, before popping up to tap home a powerful low cross from Connor Pain – who was a menacing impact sub – to seal the thrilling victory.
The big man, small man combination…
…is perfectly brought together in one by Bruno Fornaroli. At a time where City’s other international marquees are failing to fire – Sorensen excluded – Fornaroli has given hope to the supporter base that the blueprint for future internationals doesn’t necessarily have to be big-names. He chased doggedly and displayed a good instinct for goal, taking his eventual chance expertly with a neat turn. Corona for Brisbane Roar was similarly impressive last week and fits the mould perfectly.
A half plus a half…
… Equals two winless games. It’s not panic stations for City just yet – perennial slow starters in the league – but consistency problems would be a major concern for their camp. Their first half against Sydney FC last week was vibrant before looking overrun in the second. Likewise against Melbourne Victory, they looked toothless for the first 45 minutes, but once they got a sniff in the second, their relentless press made life difficult for their opposition. They’ll be looking to string together a full 90 minutes next week against Central Coast Mariners.
Best derby ever?
We’ll leave that to you.