Melbourne City striker Jamie Maclaren etched himself into the A-Leagues history book as he became the first person to score 150 goals in the league following his hat-trick in his side’s dominant 8-1 win over Brisbane Roar in Thursday’s league match at the AAMI Park in Melbourne.
Maclaren showcased a return to his exceptional form by scoring two goals in the first half, following Curtis Good’s opener, achieving a milestone in the 34th minute. In the second half, Leo Natel scored two goals, and Maclaren completed his hat-trick, marking his 151st A-League goal and 100th league goal for City. Tolgay Arslan and Ben Mazzeo also contributed goals, securing a comprehensive victory.
Despite Rylan Brownlie scoring his first Roar goal, it served as a consolation during City’s dominant performance. This defeat marked Brisbane’s first under interim coach Luciano Trani and their largest in club history. City’s win equaled the largest winning margin in A-League Men history.
Maclaren’s latest accomplishments add to his impressive A-League career, making him the all-time leading goalscorer and a four-time Golden Boot winner. The match showcased City’s stellar performance, possibly their best of the campaign, with Aurelio Vidmar’s side exhibiting seamless transitions and strong support from players like Aziz Behich, Tolgay Arslan, and Marin Jakolis.
The victory elevated City to fourth place in the standings, trailing third-placed Western Sydney Wanderers only on goal difference. In contrast, Brisbane faced a challenging transition without former head coach Ross Aloisi, slipping to the edge of falling out of the top six after three successive defeats.
Luciano Trani made a bold move by starting goalkeeper Matt Acton instead of the usual Macklin Freke. Despite a bright start from Roar, City gained control, with Good and Maclaren securing an early lead. City continued their dominance in the second half, adding more goals through Natel, Arslan, and Mazzeo.
Despite the scoreline, Roar fans found solace in Brownlie’s goal, but City’s relentless attack, orchestrated by Arslan and others, resulted in a convincing 8-1 victory.