Brisbane Roar coach Jeff Hopkins believes last week’s tempestuous semi-final win leaves the reigning champions in good stead to face Canberra United in Saturday’s W-League grand final.
If they are to retain their crown, Brisbane will need to end the season-long unbeaten run of minor premiers Canberra, who have the added advantage of playing on their home turf.
The Roar’s Matildas-laden side have the edge in terms of experience, having featured in all three previous W-League grand finals, winning two titles in the process.
Their reign appeared to be over last weekend as arch-rivals Sydney FC led with seconds remaining, only for the Roar to controversially equalise after a disputed injury delay.
Sydney’s frustration resulted in the dismissal of star striker Kyah Simon and coach Alen Stajcic, with the Roar eventually prevailing in a penalty shoot-out.
“I guess what we tried to take out of the game last weekend is the strength of character that we have within the squad,” said Hopkins.
“When it comes down to the wire in the last few minutes of games, sometimes with extra time and penalty shoot-outs, and when you come through something like that, it binds the team together.
“It gives them an inner strength and a belief. Emotionally it is tough to go through but when you come through it with a positive outcome, there is nothing like it for the group. So the girls are buzzing and ready to go.”
Brisbane will be at full strength despite lingering concerns over goalkeeper Casey Dumont, who missed their match two weeks ago with a persistent groin injury.
The home side are likely to spring a surprise by finding a starting place for Matildas veteran Caitlin Munoz as they hunt a maiden championship.
The talismanic midfielder made a swift return from a knee operation with a brief appearance off the bench in the semi-final win over Melbourne Victory.
However, Canberra’s dual international Ellyse Perry is expected to remain on the sidelines despite her availability following commitments with national cricket side over the past week.
A full house is expected at the compact McKellar Park in Belconnen and United skipper Ellie Brush hopes home advantage will help reverse the 2-0 loss in the season decider against the same opponents three years ago.
“We are all excited about the home grand final, and I think Canberra as a whole is pretty excited,” said Brush.
“Canberra teams all stick together and the Caps (Canberra Capitals basketball) players and Brumbies and Raiders have been out there supporting us week-in, week-out, which has been great.
“We have certainly been feeling the love in Canberra so we can’t wait to get out there and perform for them, and for us, and bring home the trophy.”
