Glory build buffer atop table
Perth Glory extended their lead at the top of the A-League ladder with a hard-fought 2-0 triumph over winless Newcastle Jets at nib Stadium tonight.
Glory limited their opponents’ scoring chances and were good value for the result as they continued their strong run of form in the build-up to Tuesday’s FFA Cup final away to Adelaide United.
There were questions over Daniel De Silva’s role in the build-up to the opening goal and whether
it should have stood.
Several expert commentators felt De Silva had interfered with play from an offside position before Richard Garcia scored his first goal of the season with a volley in the 11th minute.
It wasn’t the only controversy, as Newcastle captain Kew Jaliens was shown a straight red card for a horrendous tackle on Scott Jamieson eight minutes from time.
There were no doubts about Glory’s second goal as Serbian attacker Nebojsa Marinkovic rifled home a right-foot shot from the edge of the box to seal the points in the 86th minute.
The win was a record-equaling seventh straight at home for Glory and kept alive their 100 per cent record in Perth this season.
It was Glory’s first league win by more than a one-goal margin this season and sent them four points clear of second-placed Melbourne Victory, who have a game in hand.
Coach Kenny Lowe described it as an ugly win, but was happy to secure three points.
“Our first 20-25 minutes I thought was excellent and we created a lot of opportunities,” Lowe said.
“We came out like a house on fire and then I think Newcastle got back into the game.
“We’ve played better, but that’s the place where we are now that we’ve won 2-0 and we’re a bit disappointed.”
Glory’s cup final opponents Adelaide suffered their first home loss in more than a year as Henrique’s first-half thunderbolt fired resurgent Brisbane Roar to a 1-0 win at Coopers Stadium.
Henrique’s night was over before the break when he injured his right knee in a tackle from Dylan McGowan.
The Reds rested playmaker Marcelo Carrusca and stopper Nigel Boogaard ahead of the cup final.
Despite their defeat, Lowe expected Josep Gombau’s men to be at their best with the first silverware of the season on the line.
“They’ve been the best side in the league in a football context,” Lowe said.
“After a 1-0 defeat for them, it’s like riding a bike for them and I’m sure they’ll just get back on the bike on Tuesday.”
Lowe would not be drawn on his starting line-up for the cup final, but said Mitch Nichols would be available despite leaving the field last night nursing cramp in his left hamstring.
Brazilian winger Sidnei Sciola’s second-half cameo off the bench against Newcastle was a welcome sight for Glory fans.
It was Sidnei’s first appearance since the opening cup match of the season on August 5.
