UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, Brisbane Roar striker Chris Long has netted a stunning last-minute goal to secure a 1-0 victory over Adelaide United in the A-League Men. The decisive moment occurred in the 95th minute at Coopers Stadium on October 15, 2023, propelling the Roar to second place on the ladder, just one point behind Sydney FC.
Long’s spectacular strike came as he seized a long through ball, expertly maneuvering through a crowd of four defenders before unleashing a powerful shot from twelve meters. This exhilarating finish capped off a tense match that had fans on the edge of their seats right until the final whistle.
The match began on a somber note for Brisbane, as midfielder Milorad Stajic collapsed with a right hamstring injury just one minute before kick-off and was escorted off the pitch. Despite this setback, the Roar managed to create several opportunities, battling against Adelaide’s control of possession.
In the first half, Brisbane’s James O’Shea and Sam Klein both missed crucial chances, while Adelaide’s Yaya Dukuly nearly scored during a rapid counterattack, only to be denied by a sharp save. Just moments later, Reds striker Luka Jovanovic and teammate Muniz Gallego both failed to find the net, thwarted by a spectacular fingertip save from Roar goalkeeper Dean Bouzanis.
As the match progressed, both teams managed to register eight shots on goal in the first half, but the intensity dropped after the break. The Roar’s Jordan Lauton had a close header saved in the 58th minute, while Long, who came on as a substitute, forced another crucial save from Adelaide’s goalkeeper Joshua Smits with a long-range effort in the 76th minute.
Long’s match-winning strike marked a high point for the Roar, highlighting their resilience and teamwork. “It has been coming … not just myself but as a team,” Long stated in a post-match interview on Paramount Plus. “It just shows all the hard work we have put in since day dot, to be honest.”
This victory not only boosts Brisbane Roar’s position in the league but also underscores the excitement of A-League Men football, as fans eagerly await the next match. Keep an eye on the Roar as they continue to chase the top of the ladder in forthcoming fixtures.
Stay tuned for more updates as the A-League season unfolds!
