Shane Smeltz says Perth Glory’s attackers are in good enough form to cause major problems for Brisbane in the Hyundai A-League Grand Final, despite the Roar’s impressive defensive record.
Shane Smeltz says Perth Glory’s attackers are in good enough form to cause major problems for Brisbane in the Hyundai A-League Grand Final, despite the Roar’s impressive defensive record.
Only Premiers’ Plate winners Central Coast allowed fewer than the 28 goals Brisbane conceded during the home-and-away season, and that stingy defence played a key role in the defending champions finishing second.
But the Glory boasted the equal second best attacking record with 40 goals scored in the regular campaign, and have continued to impress by scoring seven times in their three finals matches.
Marquee striker Smeltz has scored eight goals in his past four games, while fellow attacker Billy Mehmet has also played a key role in the previous two victories against Central Coast and Wellington.
While he acknowledged the Roar were going to be a bigger challenge than the other defences they have faced recently, Smeltz said he, Mehmet and the Glory’s other attacking weapons would still be dangerous on Sunday.
“They’re a fantastic side, they set up well and you’ve got to be on your game,” Smeltz said.
“But the way we’re playing at the moment we’ve been causing problems going forward for any team.
“I’m expecting we’ll do the same thing and cause problems and we’ll have those chances, it’s just about taking them on the day.
“We’ve got to play the best game we’ve played all year to win this game and I think the players know that.
“But we’ve got a couple of sessions now where we’re going to work on some things and we’ll cause some problems.”
Perth’s attacking stocks could be hurt though, with Brazilian winger Andrezinho in doubt due to a slight groin strain that forced him off in the thrilling penalty shootout win against the Mariners last Saturday.
Andrezinho did not take part in training on Tuesday and instead received treatment on the injury, with the club doing everything possible to ensure he could face the Roar.
Even though they are coming off consecutive games that have gone to extra time, Mehmet said the squad are feeling great ahead of the club’s first Grand Final since they appeared in the National Soccer League decider in 2004.
“Everyone is buzzing … We’re a little bit tired but we’ve just got to get on with it,” Mehmet said.
Mehmet is confident of holding onto his spot alongside Smeltz in the starting line-up, even though Steven McGarry is nearing full fitness following a minor knee injury.
“I’ve scored against Wellington and I set the goal up for Smeltzy on Saturday. There’s not much more I can do,” he said.
