With Adelaide United’s clash against Sydney FC fast approaching, we take a closer look at three dangermen the Reds should look out for when the two sides meet on Friday at Coopers Stadium.
Alex Brosque
Alex Brosque’s influence for Sydney FC has been one of the most significant by an individual player in the club’s history. Through his two spells with the club, Brosque has managed to secure himself a place in the Sky Blues’ Team of the Decade, and was also part of Sydney’s 2009/10 Championship winning side, bagging seven goals throughout his campaign. With three goals, two assists, and twelve chances created this season, 32-year-old Brosque’s impact on the Sky Blues’ forward presence looks far from over. Having scored the winner for his side last week over Newcastle Jets, Brosque will undoubtedly be a threat to the Reds defence.
Round 9:
Goals: 1
Total Shots: 1
Shot Assists: 2
Duels Won: 25%
Mickael Tavares
Joining Sydney during the middle of last season, Mickael Tavares signed for the Sky Blues as a defensive midfielder with UEFA Champions League and German Bundesliga experience. The Senegalese international immediately slotted into Graham Arnold’s footballing style, Tavares patrolling in front of Sydney’s back four with equal measures of power and finesse. With one assist and 89.9% passing accuracy across the entire season so far, Tavares’ proficiency can see him control the midfield for fun with a fantastic understanding of the flow of games. The Reds’ forwards will constantly find Tavares on their heels and will need to be at their creative best to throw him off his game.
Round 9:
Passing Accuracy: 86.4%
Aerial Duels: 100%
Interceptions: 1
Tackles Won: 100%
Milos Ninkovic
A late winner in the Sydney Derby, perhaps the fiercest in the Hyundai A-League, was the perfect way for Milos Ninkovic to announce himself to the Sky Blue faithful. In addition to that, he’s provided an assist and eight other chances for his squad, the attacking midfielder’s creativity and flare evident from the outset. Having represented Serbia 28 times, and played for Dynamo Kyiv and Red Star Belgrade, 30-year-old Ninkovic has also featured in UEFA Champions League football, adding further experience to the already thorough midfielding cohort at Arnold’s disposal. Ninkovic’s able to cut through defences but can also complete his defensive duties soundly.
Round 9:
Passing Accuracy: 80.4%
Shot Assists: 3
Total Crosses: 3
Duels Won: 66.7%
