A League / Andy Morris / 20 November 2009 / Leave a comment Bet Now

If you want to make a few dollars out of the A-League round this weekend, you could do much worse than pick a draw in the Brisbane Roar v Melbourne Victory match, writes Andy Morris.

A couple of weeks ago you wouldn't have got many takers on this finishing all-square, but the events of round 14 showed that things are evening out.

Roar were in the doldrums following Frank Farina's sacking, and Ange Postecoglou made little difference in his first two games in charge.

But last time out they gained a fine 2-0 win at Hindmarsh Stadium over Adelaide United, suggesting the good times are just around the corner.

In contrast Melbourne had won three in a row going into last week's home match with the Central Coast Mariners, but they slipped up badly as they lost 4-0 at Etihad Stadium.

So although the league ladder shows Brisbane in seventh, five places behind Melbourne, there shouldn't be too much in this encounter.

Melbourne have blown hot and cold this season, as shown in their goals difference column - not many teams who are second on the ladder would have failed to register a plus in this column, but Victory have scored and conceded 22.

Victory gained a narrow 2-1 win over the Roar back in round 9, the last time these two teams met, but with Brisbane having home advantage this time it should be even closer.

Indeed, the other time these teams have locked horns in the current campaign it ended 3-3.

Melbourne have proved themselves to be a good team on the road this season, having won five out of six away from Etihad Stadium. But their confidence will have been dented somewhat by that dreadful defeat in front of their home fans last Saturday.

Melbourne have won six of their last eight games, but their defensive frailties are there for all to see - they have the equal-worst defensive record in the league.

Postecoglou is an outstanding coach who in time will undoubtedly get the best out of his Roar squad, and he will do well to make Sergio van Dijk and Danny Tiatto the fulcrums of his side.

Van Dijk has scored Brisbane's last three goals, and is one of the best strikers in the league. Tiatto is a gritty midfield with Premier League experience; few opponents get the better of him.

I would be surprised if either of these teams can dominate this match, and I intend to stake a few dollars on the outcome being all-square.

Tags: A-League, Roar, Victory