Queensland Roar will be looking to break one of the most longstanding Hyundai A-League records this Sunday when they take on the Newcastle Jets at Suncorp Stadium.
Since the inception of the Hyundai A-League, Newcastle has always been able to take the full three points when they travel to Brisbane.
However the form-lines of the respective two sides suggest the Roar are in the box seat to change that this weekend.
Newcastle’s title defence is in tatters after a terrible start to the season and they now sit anchored to the bottom of the table with just 12 points.
The Roar could climb as high as second place on the ladder with a win and last month ended their winless streak at home with a 4-1 thumping of Perth.
But Roar coach Frank Farina was wary of the Jets.
“Our record up here against them is obviously not good at all,” Farina said.
“We’re hoping to turn that around, but we won’t be underestimating them or looking too much into their form this season.”
“They’re still a good side and most probably lacking a little bit of confidence.”
Making Queensland’s task all the more difficult is the likely return of Joel Griffiths and Mark Milligan.
Roar skipper Craig Moore was worried about the impact the skillful duo could have.
“He’s (Griffiths) just coming off a suspension and from what I’ve read he was a bit disappointed with his reaction.”
“He’s been terrific for Newcastle, he’ll have a buzz about coming back into the team after missing for a few weeks, as will Milligan who I think will come back in, it’s our job to keep them quiet.”
The turf at Suncorp Stadium was relayed earlier this week after a music concert and while there had been speculation about the condition of the pitch, Moore was impressed with the surface he trained on.
“The pitch looks really nice … it’s a lot spongier, there’s a lot more grass there and it seems a lot more even, I’d imagine by Sunday it’ll be in even better condition, so that should be good.”
