We spoke to a host of Hyundai A-League stars at the Dolan Warren Awards to pick their brains on Sunday’s blockbuster Grand Final between Adelaide United and Western Sydney Wanderers.
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Brisbane Roar’s three-time title-winner Thomas Broich
“I was really impressed by the fact they [Wanderers] weren’t affected when we scored [on Sunday].
“It wasn’t as if we were dominating at that time in the game and they just brushed it off and went on with their business.
“That’s definitely a character trait that comes in handy when it comes to winning trophies.
“It’s hard to pick a winner. Adelaide has been so consistent but after seeing what Wanderers can do from 3-0 down in such an important game, you can’t write them off.”
Sydney FC skipper Alex Brosque
“Adelaide’s taking some very good form into it.
“They dealt with Melbourne City very convincingly and being at home I think they will win it.
“Although, I did get my two tips wrong for the semi-finals so maybe not. Even though a few of my family are Wanderers fans, I think Adelaide might win.”
Hyundai A-League goalkeeper of the year Thomas Sorensen of Melbourne City
“I think Adelaide. They are playing at home and there will probably be 50,000 there, that’s a huge advantage.
“It’s going to be a tight game. Western Sydney have shown they are dangerous.
“Hopefully we get a lot of goals and entertainment but in my view Adelaide have got the edge.”
Newcastle Jets gloveman Mark Birighitti
“They are two great teams, they’ve been the two standout teams the whole season.
“They’re both good footballing teams so it’s going to be a great spectacle for the A-League. I’ll be flying over there for the game.
“I’d like to say Adelaide being my old club. It’s a club that I have a lot of fond memories there and I hope they get over the line.
“They deserve it, they finished top and it would be good to see them do the double.”
Three-time championship winner Besart Berisha of Melbourne Victory
“Adelaide, the way they came back this season, the spirit and belief in the team must be really good.
“That’s a little bit of an advantage. And [Western] Sydney, we saw the comeback they did against Brisbane as well so it’s going to be a great game.
“It’s always who turns up with the right attitude because it’s a big game, plenty of emotions and I guess whoever has the better attitude in the team and turns up ready to win will get it.
“It will be tight…maybe Adelaide.”
Central Coast Mariners winger Fabio Ferreira
“It’s going to be a hard game. It’s 50-50 as they are both very good teams and are playing great soccer.
“I spent some time in Adelaide so I have a soft spot for them.”
Perth Glory keeper Ante Covic
“It’s so hard to say. Obviously being with the Wanderers for so long, failing twice at the last hurdle but having so much success, I’d love the boys to do it. It’d be horrible to go three without winning.
“But you have to give Adelaide credit. They are phenomenal and look hard to beat. The teams match up well, they are similar and yet they are different.
“Wanderers may be more of a pressing team whereas Adelaide may be build a little more. Slightly different styles but similar philosophy.
“If the grand final was in Sydney I’d say the Wanderers. Being in Adelaide it throws a spanner in the works but I’ll still go with Wanderers.”
