Words: Steve Pitman & Michael Flynn
Image: Ray Gardner

Brisbane Strikers coach Kevin A’herne-Evans is doing his utmost to anticipate the unexpected ahead of Saturday’s clash with Redlands United.

The two finals contenders face-off in the sole match PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues match of the weekend – the fixture rescheduled to accommodate both sides' advance to the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 32.

The match offers Strikers the chance to move within a point of league-leaders FNQ Heat, while for the hosting Redlands a return to the competition top four is on offer.

With plenty on the line for both sides, A’herne-Evans suggested the fixture could be one of the matches of the regular season.

“It’s going to be a bumper game at the Showgrounds this weekend, no doubt about it,” A’herne-Evans explained.

“You’ve got one team still believing that we can go on and win a title and you’ve got the other team fighting to get back into the top four.”

“Every time Strikers play Redlands it’s always one of the best and most attractive games to watch.”

“There are a number of top, top players on the field so it’s really exciting to go down there. Anyone thinking it’s going to be a dour game obviously has not seen a Redlands-Strikers game before.”

Redlands claimed the spoils when the sides clashed earlier this season at Perry Park and are eyeing a first ever PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues double over Strikers.

A’herne-Evans said his opponent’s ability to adapt their structures throughout the ninety minutes means he and his players will need to be on their toes.

“We know that it will be classic Redlands – they will come out with a certain structure and game plan initially but, if there’s anything consistent about Redlands over the last year, they’ve consistently changed their game to react to what the opposition’s doing and get their best players involved in the game,” he said.

“They consistently change their formation and they change where their personnel are playing to go out there and affect the game. It’s quite difficult to prepare for a team like that.”

A’herne-Evans added that he had no concerns about his own side’s form, despite a last start loss to a ten man Olympic FC.

“The result was disappointing, however we only lost that game because we missed a couple of opportunities. It wasn’t a case of being beaten by a far better side,” A’Herne-Evans said.

“I don’t think there’s been a team that has played football that is as attractive and consistent as what we have this season.  Some of our play at times has been a pleasure to be a part of.

“It’s just making sure that we continue to improve, and in particular in the final third.”

“Building up from the back isn’t a problem, playing through the midfield isn’t a problem. It’s just when we get into the final third, whether we can execute a little bit better there,” he concluded.

PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues 2016 – Round 13 (rescheduled)

Redlands United FC v Brisbane Strikers FC
Saturday, July 16 | 3:00PM
Cleveland Showgrounds, Redland City