There were some exceptional performances from a few Aussies in the Hyundai A-League over the weekend, including a dynamic duo from Melbourne City.
In our Local Aussies wrap, here are six players who caught the eye from the four matches played in Round 23 of the Hyundai A-League on the weekend.
LUKE BRATTAN
The classy midfielder admitted he was disappointed to have missed out on a spot in Bert van Marwijk’s first Caltex Socceroos squad but he didn’t let the setback affect his performance.
Brattan put in a man-of-the-match display in Melbourne City’s 1-1 draw with Adelaide United on Friday night.
The 28-year-old has been producing all season for Warren Joyce’s men and in 90-minutes against the Reds he had 96 touches and made 70 passes at an accuracy rate of 91.4%.
Add to that the three chances created and winning almost 62% of duels contested and it was another superb all-round display by the Manchester City loanee.
JACK DUNCAN
Newcastle Jets boss Ernie Merrick might have felt his side didn’t deserve the win against Wellington but they had the performance of their gloveman to thank for taking all three points.
The Jets custodian made five crucial saves in Auckland to preserve a 1-0 victory, keeping the pressure on league-leaders Sydney FC.
Another impressive keeper on the growing production line of Aussie shot-stoppers.
DANIEL ARZANI
Another week, another example of why this teenager is living up to the hype about his undoubted ability.
And it a shining example of his development, Arzani completed his first 90-minute outing in the Hyundai A-League and was heavily involved in Stefan Mauk’s equaliser in the 1-1 draw in Adelaide.
Arzani was a real handful against the Reds, winning three fouls and won 18 out of 27 duels contested.
"I still think there's more to come. He's obviously an exciting prospect,” City boss Warren Joyce said of Arzani.
"He wants to work, he wants to learn, and I'm pleased for him that he got through 90 minutes. It's a bugbear of his that he couldn't deal with [a full match until now] because he puts a lot of work in."
JACOB PEPPER
With two of Roar’s leading centre-backs out through injury, Pepper deputised in the heart of defence and did a sterling job in Brisbane’s upset 2-1 win over Sydney FC.
Not only did the 25-year-old keep the shackles on runaway golden boot leader Bobo, he also popped up with Roar’s decisive second goal.
And it was Pepper’s first goal in the Hyundai A-League in six years, capping an unforgettable night for the versatile former Jet and Wanderer.
JAMES TROISI
Another classy display from the Caltex Socceroos playmaker, who played a significant role in Victory’s drubbing of the Mariners.
Troisi was involved in two of his side’s first three goals, winning possession in midfield for Leroy George’s opener before unselfishly teeing up Besart Berisha after the break.
He heads into camp with the Caltex Socceroos in Europe this week in a confident mood.
CONNOR PAIN
His side may have been comprehensively beaten but Pain could hold his head high after an eye-catching individual display.
Pain salvaged some respectability for his side, scoring two late goals, including a bullet into the top corner, as the Gosford club lost 5-2 at AAMI Park.
