There were plenty of outstanding individual performances across the Hyundai A-League’s split Round 22 over the past fortnight.
But who did enough to make the Team of the Week? Here’s who we’ve gone with in a 3-4-3 formation.
KEEPER
Jamie Young (Roar) – Showed his class with another super display against Adelaide. Made several key saves, with a one-on-one denial of Nikola Mileusnic proving crucial.
DEFENDERS
Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Jets) – The centre-back was immense for a 10-man Jets outfit as they held a star-studded Sydney FC side at bay in a 2-1 upset win.
Brendan Hamill (Wanderers) – Took both of his goals like a veteran striker, which was all the more important in the absence of Oriol Riera. Added five clearances in a top all-round performance.
Josh Risdon (Wanderers) – Might have had a goal to his credit, but the Caltex Socceroo can be more than satisfied with an assist, five clearances and 14 of 22 duels won.
MIDFIELDERS
Eric Bautheac (Roar) – Made the difference with a touch of class in the 1-0 win over Adelaide and could easily have finished with an assist.
Dimi Petratos (Jets) – The perfect foil for Nabbout. Kept his nerve to convert the opener from the spot at and would have a delightful second if not for the post.
Xavi Torres (Glory) – Given additional creative freedom with Diego Castro sidelined, Torres did his compatriot proud as that terrific late free-kicked capped off a dangerous display.
Thomas Kristensen (Roar) – Defended dutifully, distributed cleanly and helped keep Roar together under late pressure from a determined Reds outfit.
ATTACKERS
Andrew Nabbout (Jets) – His brilliant 30-yard winner against the champions was audacious, technically superb and the sign of a player at the peak of his powers.
Kosta Barbarouses (Victory) – The Kiwi winger was at his electric best in the Melbourne Derby, scoring a goal and posing a constant threat to the City goal in Victory’s win.
Mark Bridge (Wanderers) – An excellent display from the Wanderers skipper as he notched two assists and created eight chances – more than double of any other player on the pitch – in the resounding win over Wellington.
MANAGER OF THE ROUND
Ernie Merrick (Jets) – The Scotsman masterminded Newcastle’s thrilling 2-1 upset over Sydney FC with his side forced to play the majority of the match with 10 men. One of the most courageous wins in A-League history.
