Melbourne Victory vs Adelaide United: A-League Grand Final

Call me crazy, but I think the only thing that could undo the Melbourne Victory tomorrow night is complacency.

Melbourne faltered at times during season 4 of the A-League – especially against teams propping up the ladder. For the latter half of the season, this became the pattern: solid wins against top of the table sides, disappointing losses against struggling sides.

Other factors may have played a part, but I think part of the reason why Melbourne lost the ‘easy’ games and won the ‘hard’ ones comes down to complacency.

All year, Melbourne has had the edge over Adelaide United. But Adelaide has always been considered a tough opponent, a side to be wary of. After the demolition two weeks ago, you’d be forgiven for thinking of Adelaide as an easy beat.

But underdogs can spring big surprises. Confidence won’t hurt Melbourne tomorrow night, but it cannot afford to be complacent.

I didn’t get a chance to watch the Adelaide vs Queensland game last week, but from what I’ve heard it was a stubbornly defensive Adelaide United that managed to bury the Roar. The reintroduction of Jonas Salley to the side seems to have had the desired effect, shoring up the midfield. But will it be enough?

Once again, Ernie Merrick has a full squad to pick from. The Victory have had two weeks to rest and prepare. They’re fit. They’re ready. And as long as they don’t grow complacent, I believe they’re going to be lifting the trophy tomorrow night.