In-form striker Jamie Maclaren has special reason to be looking forward to Brisbane Roar’s first home match of the season against Central Coast Mariners on Sunday at Suncorp Stadium.
Maclaren scored on his Hyundai A-League debut against the Mariners in November 2013 playing for Perth Glory.
And the Olyroo has started his Roar career in fine style after netting a brace on debut in last week’s 3-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers.
Hyundai A-League Rd 2 Opta Stats preview
The 22-year-old, who finished last season with nine goals, is not getting carried away as the Roar prepare for a tough encounter against the Mariners, who beat Perth 3-2 in their opening fixture.
“Everyone is working hard to do their jobs and play within the structures we have practised in the pre-season. If we do that, we will create more goal-scoring chances,” Maclaren said.
Brisbane has scored 11 goals in their last three Hyundai A-League encounters with the Mariners (W2 D1), including a 6-1 victory at Suncorp Corp Stadium in April.
John Aloisi’s side enjoyed a 3-1 win over Central Coast in pre-season but the Roar boss is expecting a far tougher encounter on Sunday.
“We have the utmost respect for the Mariners. This is going to be a touch game,” Aloisi said.
