The Weekly Wanderer: Reach Out and Touch It

The Western Sydney Wanderers host a buoyant Brisbane Roar this Sunday (5:00pm AEST) in what is sure to be an enthralling Semi Final affair.

The Roar left things late yet again last weekend as they came from behind to snatch a 2-1 win over Melbourne Victory in stoppage time. It’s the sort of stuff we’ve become accustomed to; the sort of stuff you’d expect. Besart Berisha’s 86th minute volley looked the killer blow, the game-winner, and Victory’s ticket into the Semi Finals. However, following Matt McKay’s instant equaliser, you just knew the home side had one more dramatic finish in them.

Now, awaiting the Roar stands a Western Sydney side aiming to reach their third Grand Final in just their fourth year of existence. In truth the Wanderers have struggled this season against John Aloisi’s men. Their inability to defend consistently, nor contain Jamie Maclaren in the final third, have often been the catalysts to their downfall. As a result, this Sunday’s encounter is sure to be a battle. And with both sides looking healthy ahead of the contest, we’re definitely in for a treat.

With two wins in his last ten attempts Tony Popovic knows the Roar’s quality full well. The Wanderers were beaten twice out of the three meetings against John Aloisi’s men this season, but will take comfort knowing their last victory against them also came at home. And with what could very well be the last red and black finals fixture played out at Pirtek Stadium for some season or two, here’s hoping they can get the job done.

The Grand Final awaits, reach out and touch it. COYW.