McKay's ACL preference comes to the surface

Fans may not be happy but Brisbane Roar's players are relishing a chance to stage their AFC Asian Champions League group games on the Gold Coast, because it offers the chance to escape the much maligned Suncorp Stadium surface.

Midfielder Matt McKay has no qualms over Brisbane playing ACL games on the Gold Coast (Getty)

Midfielder Matt McKay has no qualms over Brisbane playing ACL games on the Gold Coast (Getty) Source: Getty Images

Roar supporters have taken to social media to vent their frustration over Brisbane's decision to move ACL matches to the tourist strip due to a clash with a rock concert.

But after training at the Gold Coast venue, Roar's Socceroos midfielder Matt McKay said his teammates had no complaints.

McKay did not want to pour more fuel on the Suncorp Stadium surface controversy that exploded at the recent Asian Cup.

But Socceroos teammate Robbie Kruse called the Brisbane surface a "disgrace" during the tournament, while China coach Alain Perrin described it as "very, very, very, very bad."

However, McKay still gave away what he thought of the Brisbane venue after admitting his team looked forward to playing on a "quality surface" on the Gold Coast.

"Obviously the surface is incredible. We trained there on Monday and it was a real treat for us not having to worry about our touch," he said.

"Suncorp is improving as well but we will be delighted to give Suncorp a rest and play on a quality surface."

Brisbane was forced to look to the tourist strip after its 25 February fixture against an as yet undecided opponent clashed with a Foo Fighters gig at Suncorp Stadium.

Under Asian Football Confederation rules, all three ACL pool matches must be played at the same venue, including on 17 March against K-League Suwon Bluewings and Japanese giant Urawa Red Diamonds on 5 May.

"We have to put up with a lot, concerts are part and parcel of Suncorp Stadium now," McKay said.

"But I still think we will hold a home ground advantage playing on the Gold Coast."

Meanwhile, Roar teammate Thomas Broich said Western Sydney's ACL title success would inspire Brisbane.

"It creates belief," Broich said. "If a team from Australia goes all the way, why can't we do it?

"Whatever the competition we go out there to win it - the sky is the limit."


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Published 10 February 2015 8:05pm

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