Brisbane Roar secured their first win since Round 1, defeating Perth Glory 3-1 on March 15, 2025, at HBF Park, effectively escaping the bottom position of the A-League ladder for the first time this season. The match served as more than just three points; it marked the birthday of midfielder Sam Klein, who celebrated his 21st year with his first career double.
The clash was anticipated as significant for both sides, as they battled to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon. Perth Glory took the lead early, with Luke Amos opening the scoring just seven minutes after the kickoff. After controlling the ball, he executed a stunning strike from range, hitting the top corner with precision. Teo Pellizzeri, the match commentator, remarked, "That is a goal what will garner attention back in his homeland. He's still got it," highlighting the significance of Amos’ rare moment of brilliance.
Despite falling behind, Brisbane Roar responded just before halftime. New signing, 21-year-old midfielder, and former Portugal U19 international, Akeem Abubakar strategized down the left flank, breaking through the Glory defense. Combining with Keegan Jelacic, he managed to poke the ball past goalkeeper Oli Sail, leveling the score at 1-1.
Shortly after the restart, Sam Klein marked his special day with his first A-League goal, showcasing his skill with rapid footwork. Following a corner headed down by Abubakar, Klein volleyed home from close range, making it 2-1 for the Roar. The jubilant moment was not only significant for Klein but pivotal for the team’s push out of the relegation zone.
With the match nearing its conclusion, Klein sealed the victory for the Roar, scoring again and running the full length of the pitch, capping off the night spectacularly by curling a strike from the edge of the box. “A special night for him,” commented Phil Moss, recognizing the significance of this match for Klein as it constituted the best performance of his young career.
This victory sees Brisbane Roar leapfrog Perth Glory on the A-League standings, moving to 12th place with two games still to play. The win is particularly pivotal for Brisbane, as they seek to break what could have been the lowest point in their twenty-year history.
Currently, Perth Glory faces mounting pressure as they sit at the bottom of the standings, with only 11 points amassed from 21 matches, and struggling defensively having conceded 47 goals, the highest league total. Adam Taggart, their team captain, has managed to score half of their poor tally of 14 goals, emphasizing the team’s overall offensive struggles.
With five matches remaining and tough opponents on the horizon, including Auckland FC and Adelaide United, Perth will need to drastically improve if they wish to avoid finishing last for the second consecutive season. David Zdrilic, their coach, is undoubtedly worried, especially considering their lack of wins, with their last victory coming back on January 11 against Auckland FC.
Looking forward, Brisbane Roar aims to build on this momentum as they prepare to face league leaders Auckland FC at Suncorp Stadium on March 30, 2025. The Roar, under coach Ruben Zadkovich, are facing the challenge with renewed confidence after breaking their winless streak.
Overall, this match was not only about the score but represented determined fight from the Roar to recover their position within the league. This positive shift could be what they need to galvanize the team as they head toward the final stretch of the season.
The final score stood at: Brisbane Roar 3, Perth Glory 1.