Brisbane Roar coach John Aloisi says leading the league with two matches to play is deserved reward for the resilience of his players.
Written off by many at the start of the season, Brisbane moved two points clear at the top on Saturday night courtesy of a rollercoaster 3-2 home win over Sydney FC.
The hosts – who earlier came from behind to lead 2-1 – snatched a dramatic winner when Henrique scored within 60 seconds of Filip Holosko’s 87th minute equaliser.
Roar down Sky Blues in five-goal thriller
“They showed they’ve got unbelievable character and they believe in what we’re doing,” Aloisi said.
“We showed the same spirit as we showed against the Wanderers (in the 3-2 win in round 22) and I couldn’t be prouder of the boys.
“They deserve it. They deserve the three points and deserve to be in the position we’re in.”
In-form midfielder Dimitri Petratos played a key role in Roar’s first-half turnaround as he first equalised with a firm finish before delivering a delightful cross for Jamie Maclaren to make it 2-1.
Aloisi believes there is more still to come from the former Sydney man, who now has four goals in his past six appearances.
“Dimi has shown this year he’s a great player and I still feel he can get better,” the former Socceroo said.
“He’s a great finisher, he can score goals. We know that.
“This is probably the best season he has had in the A-League. Hopefully he gets that consistency in his game because he’s got a great final pass, he can do that.
“He’s shown especially over the last few weeks that he can make a big difference for us.”
