Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Brisbane: Henrique was once again the hero as the Brazilian striker netted the extra-time winner as Brisbane Roar defeated Western Sydney Wanderers 2-1 in the Grand Final to win their third A-League Championship in four years.
Henrique, who scored the winning penalty and in extra-time as the Roar defeated Central Coast Mariners in the 2011 Grand Final, skilfully controlled Thomas Brioch’s 108th minute cross before netting the winner from close range.
Brioch, the 2013/14 A-League Player of the Season, also hand in the equalising goal, with the German midfielder delivering a deft free-kick which was headed home by Besart Berisha with four minutes of regulation time remaining as the Melbourne Victory-bound Albania international cancelled out Matthew Spiranovic’s 56th minute opener.
Sunday’s triumph that confirms Brisbane Roar’s return to the AFC Champions League for the first time since the 2012 edition, having missed out in 2013 following their penalty shootout defeat to Buriram United in the playoffs.
Speaking to media after the resilient comeback victory over the Wanderers, Roar coach Mike Mulvey paid tribute to his side’s fighting spirit.
“This club has it in its DNA. I was never in any doubt,” said the 2013/14 A-League Coach of the Year.
"They have this spirit within them. Built up through the years they've been together. This is some achievement by this club."