A Melbourne Derby to Remember
It is the A-League's only true city derby and in one magnificent night for the game all the hype, banter and passion cultivated in a mother of a game.
With a missed penalty, stunning comeback and some incredible goals the Melbourne Derby produced the good and in front of a sell-out crowd no less. In a game that produced dozens of memorable moments and points of discussion the game did not disappoint at any level (unless of course you're a Victory supporter).
It all started magnificently, with the Victory stunning the Heart with a 30 minute attacking blitz which resulted in a goal, however the Heart bounce back through Matt Thompson scoring twice in a minute to put the Victory on the back foot. The Heat eventually took the 3 points in what was an entertaining spectacle.
But besides the fantastic advertisement for football in Australia, what can we take from this game tactically? The Heart once again proved to possess the depth and character required for a championship side and after defeating the Victory in front of that vocal crowd should cope well with finals pressure.
However despite the stunning display John Van Ship refuses to announce his team as finals contenders in what may be a clever move. The Heart must prove themselves against the tactically minded Central Coast first.
The Victory on the other hand showed their absolute best and worst on the night and need to address the team's character. Victory cannot afford to drop their heads every time they concede goals and personal issues between Hernandez and Kewell (displayed prior to the Victory's penalty) need to be resolved.
The Melbourne Derby satisfied on all levels and showed the best of football in Australia. Bring on Derby VI (and maybe a Sydney Derby down the track!)
It all started magnificently, with the Victory stunning the Heart with a 30 minute attacking blitz which resulted in a goal, however the Heart bounce back through Matt Thompson scoring twice in a minute to put the Victory on the back foot. The Heat eventually took the 3 points in what was an entertaining spectacle.
But besides the fantastic advertisement for football in Australia, what can we take from this game tactically? The Heart once again proved to possess the depth and character required for a championship side and after defeating the Victory in front of that vocal crowd should cope well with finals pressure.
However despite the stunning display John Van Ship refuses to announce his team as finals contenders in what may be a clever move. The Heart must prove themselves against the tactically minded Central Coast first.
The Victory on the other hand showed their absolute best and worst on the night and need to address the team's character. Victory cannot afford to drop their heads every time they concede goals and personal issues between Hernandez and Kewell (displayed prior to the Victory's penalty) need to be resolved.
The Melbourne Derby satisfied on all levels and showed the best of football in Australia. Bring on Derby VI (and maybe a Sydney Derby down the track!)
Comments
Post a Comment