The latest instalment of the league's most volatile fixture ended with the Victory clawing back to level terms to depart Hindmarsh with a share of the spoils. All in all, this contest was not decided by clever tactical flourishes, but through fitness and momentum.
Honours even at the Etihad Stadium, after a fairly tentative game between the two Melbourne rivals. Billed as the return of 'turncoat'/'saviour' Harry Kewell, it was instead Postecoglou's Victory which provided the more tactical interest.
Brisbane's fall from grace continues unabated then, with a shocking two-nil defeat away against a resilient Wellington outfit. This was always going to be a tough fixture, especially with such an arduous travel schedule involved, but no one seriously expected such a definitive scoreline against the visitors. This match was notable in a tactical sense for the slight tweaks both managers made to their respective sides.
This match was an open and exciting encounter between two clubs with very contrasting styles; Heart, with their 'total voetball' sensibilities and Wellington, with a counter-attacking brief that emphasises speed and power. The first half was dominated by the hosts, who were able to create a handful of outright chances, without closing the deal. The Nix fought back in the second period, with renewed energy and aggressive substitutions. Credit to both managers for a game that served as a laudable example of and to Australian football.
