Brisbane Roar’s unbeaten pre-season streak has continued with a 3-1 training match win over runaway Queensland State League leaders Sunshine Coast Fire in Gympie.
The match was played in wet – and at times torrential – conditions, but a healthy crowd was still on hand to cheer on both sides.
A handy display from the frontline partnership of Kosta Barbarouses and Henrique paved the way for the win with the New Zealander bagging two goals and the Brazilian the other.
Brisbane took the lead late in the first 40 minute half when Barbarouses slotted his first of the game.
The New Zealand international found himself free on the edge of the box with the ball at his feet after an Henrique effort was well blocked by Fire goalkeeper Antony Hall.
Barbarouses grabbed the opportunity from dead in front and lashed home the rebound.
On the stroke of half-time it was the Brazilian-s turn to get his name on the scoresheet courtesy of a cross from Barbarouses.
After being played down the right by Thomas Broich, Barbarouses put the ball into the heart of the box where Henrique expertly turned his defender and put the ball past Hall.
Barbarouses then scored Brisbane-s third goal – and his double – midway through the second period.
Making a scorching run from wide on the left, Barbarouses cut back inside and unleashed an unstoppable shot with his right foot.
The Fire began to move the ball well and exert some of their own pressure, with much of their best play going through Yuta Gonai.
While Brisbane-s unbeaten run remains intact, the streak of five consecutive clean sheets came to an end courtesy of a well-taken goal by Corey Towle.
With 20 minutes left in the contest, Towle pounced defensive header which failed to clear the area and curled a shot into the top corner.
The goal was just reward for the Fire who pushed Brisbane hard for the entirety of the contest.
Brisbane-s next pre-season training match will be against a Brisbane Invitational XI at Underwood Park, Rochedale on July 6.
Gates open at 4.30pm with the Rapid Fire Fields, player signings begin at 4.45pm and kick-off is scheduled at 7.05pm.
