Qld Roar - top of table, playing Melbourne tomorrow

It's true! The heading's not a misprint. Queensland Roar are currently top of the A-League (though only on goal difference). And they're playing Melbourne Victory tomorrow evening, at Suncorp Stadium.

Since their last home game (the win against Central Coast Mariners), Qld played 2 away games: 1-1 draw against Wellington Phoenix, & 4-1 win against Perth Glory. At the same time, the Mariners lost their matches against Sydney & Melbourne. That allowed Qld to pull level with the Mariners on points, but Qld's better goal difference means they are leaders.

Who would thought it possible? Not me. But the table doesn't lie. Qld got to the top by putting together a run of consistent results, only losing 1 game in the last 3 months. And tomorrow, they have the chance to maintain the excellent run when they play Melbourne.

Melbourne are the reigning A-League champions, so the match tomorrow is league leaders against current champions. It promises to be a cracker. Both teams have everything to play for. Qld can consolidate their position with a win. If that happens, Melbourne will miss out on the playoffs & therefore surrender their A-League crown. For Melbourne to have any chance of reaching the playoffs, they simply must beat Qld, then win their last 2 matches, & then hope for favourable results elsewhere. So, a lot is at stake.

Qld must watch out for Melbourne's attackers. They are dangerous, as evidenced by the 5-2 thrashing of the Mariners last week. It's not going to be easy, though. Qld will start with a reserve goalkeeper - the first choice & another reserve keeprs are both out injured. Qld's defence are also weakened by an injury & a suspension. So, Melbourne must feel confident of scoring against Qld. I don't think Qld have any injury worries in midfield or attack, which is good news.

Qld managed to contain Melbourne the last time Melbourne are in town, & win. In fact, Qld kept Melbourne scoreless. It would be good if Qld can prevent them from scoring again, but it will be a big ask. If they maintain their recent form & play their normal attacking game, then Qld can win again. What a great chance Qld has of ending Melbourne's season by beating them tomorrow. Come on Qld, you can do it!