It was a day defined by clinical defending and heartfelt goodbyes at Kayo Stadium on Saturday, January 3. Brisbane Roar and Wellington Phoenix played out a rare double stalemate. Both the Isuzu UTE A-League and Ninja A-League fixtures finished 0–0. As a result, the matches highlighted the defensive discipline that has defined both sides throughout the 2025/26 season.
Men’s Report: The Fortress Remains Unbreached
The Roar men extended their impressive home defensive streak. They recorded a sixth consecutive clean sheet at Kayo Stadium. Although head coach Michael Valkanis served a suspension in the stands, the Brisbane backline remained resolute and well organised. Meanwhile, the Phoenix arrived eager to stabilise after a difficult week. Consequently, they set up in a compact mid-block that limited Brisbane’s attacking flow. Justin Vidic, fresh from his New Year’s Eve heroics, came closest in the 68th minute. However, a sharp reflex save denied him. At the other end, Wellington threatened on the counter through Ifeanyi Eze. Even so, neither side found a decisive touch. Ultimately, the stalemate leaves Brisbane third on the ladder, just two points off the summit.
A Historic Farewell: Lucas Herrington
The emotional centre of the day arrived between the two matches at 5:50 pm. Fans remained in their seats for a special farewell presentation to Lucas Herrington. The 18-year-old academy product will depart for MLS side Colorado Rapids later this month in a club-record transfer. Herrington joined the Brisbane Roar at just 13 years old. Since then, he has risen from local junior to first-team regular. Visibly moved, he thanked the “Den” for their support. His journey stands as a landmark moment for the club’s youth development pathway.
Women’s Report: Defiance Amid the Depth Test
In the late kickoff, the Brisbane Roar women delivered one of their most resilient displays of the season. They faced the league’s defensive benchmarks while managing their own injury concerns. Key starters Grace Kuilamu and Zara Kruger both missed the match. The contest developed into a tactical battle. Brisbane’s defensive structure successfully neutralised Sabitra Bhandari’s influence. Although Wellington controlled large periods of possession, the Roar’s reshuffled midfield held firm. As a result, Brisbane secured a valuable point. The draw keeps Wellington fifth on the ladder. Meanwhile, a gritty Brisbane side remains firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish.
