Facing an in-form Melbourne Victory is exactly the kind of challenge Brisbane coach John Aloisi believes his out-of-sorts A-League team needs.
The Roar have slumped to second-last on the competition ladder after last weekend's disappointing 2-0 loss to Newcastle and have just one win from seven matches this season.
In contrast, the Victory have stormed to second on the ladder on the back of five consecutive wins with Japanese star Keisuke Honda and Swedish striker Ola Toivenen fitting in seamlessly at the defending A-League champions.
While it may have all the hallmarks of a mismatch, Aloisi says his team is excited to prove the doubters wrong at Suncorp Stadium.
"We know we've got a side that can beat Victory and that's what we'll try and do," the ex-Socceroo said.
"It's actually come at a good time because of our loss last week and we're looking forward to playing against Victory. We know they're a good side. We know they've won five in a row but that makes it that extra bit special."
The Roar will be boosted by the return of Stefan Mauk after the attacking midfielder missed the Jets defeat due to suspension.
Leading scorer Adam Taggart is also likely to start after having to come off the bench in Newcastle due to a groin strain.
Aloisi remains hopeful if the pair can spend time together on the pitch, they will blossom into a crucial partnership for the club.
"Stef Mauk, we bought him for a reason, because he does link up well with midfield into the front third," he said.
"You saw that when did play with Adam Taggart, they've got a great understanding.
"We can't go get a Honda but we can go and get a young talented Australian and hopefully help them develop into big stars and that's what we're trying to do."
The Victory head north with imports Georg Niedermeier (ankle) and Raul Baena (hamstring), who have both been ruled out through injury.
Carl Valeri will continue to fill in for Baena while Nick Ansell is expected to slot into the backline in place of Niedermeier.
KEY MATCH FACTS
* Despite failing to score a first-half goal in each of their past four games against the Victory at Suncorp Stadium, the Roar have won two and drawn one of those matches.
* Brisbane are undefeated in their past five matches at home, including their only win so far this season against Melbourne City.
* Victory's 16 goals in seven matches is the highest in the league with Keisuke Honda (four goals, three assists) involved in as many goals alone as the Roar have so far managed in total this season.
Australian Associated Press
