Both teams opened the season in Australia. Melbourne Victory beat FC Sydney 2-0 on the road, while Newcastle Jets made a late comeback to shake hands with Perth Glory 2-2.
FC Sydney had a solid performance from their players against Victory. They created a number of good chances to break through, with concise and direct attacks from the wings and backs, and quite a few crosses. However, the players' grasping power was poor, and they hesitated in front of the goal when they could have led by 4 goals in 15 minutes. If they could be more calm, they might be able to grasp more chances.
Konaroly's play was crucial. Against FC Sydney, he helped his team open the scoring, and despite his 36 years old age, his shots are still accurate. If he can get more chances on goal against Newcastle Jets' unstable defense, I believe the number of goals will increase.
It wasn't easy for Newcastle Jets to come away with a point. My former hosts were focused throughout the game and despite going behind shortly after the start, managed to equalize and then equalize again in the 92nd minute of the game to secure a point.
Stendy Lupus scored his second goal for the Jets late in the game on his AFL debut after returning to the team. He was excellent in the box with both overhead and ground attacks, and will provide passing and shooting options from his central position if the Jets can get the ball to the wing.
However, the inexperience of both teams was highlighted. The Jets should have avoided conceding a goal, but both goals conceded were due to mistakes at the back. If they make another mistake, I fear they will be penalized.
