It’s been a bright start to life as a Wanderer for the Red & Black’s newest number 9.
Is Oriol Riera the most in-form striker in Australia?
He’s certainly putting forward a pretty convincing case.
After opening his Hyundai A-League account against Perth last week, the marquee man has now bagged six in his last five competitive games for the club, following his sterling form in the Wanderers’ run to the Westfield FFA Cup Semi Finals.
His lethalness in front of goal is a welcome sight for the Red & Black faithful who have been craving for a no-nonsense frontman for some time now.
And if the early signs are any indication, it seems like the search may be over.
Riera’s goal against Perth typified what the big man is all about; he expertly held his run on the shoulders of the Glory defence before latching onto a beautifully weighted pass from fellow marquee Álvaro Cejudo and showing real composure to slot home past Liam Reddy.
Just as pleasing as Riera’s ability in front of goal is his work-rate off the ball, as the 31-year-old has shown that he’s more than willing to defend from the front.
It’s early days still but if Riera continues on the trajectory he’s on at the moment, there’s every chance he could be in for a record-breaking season.
At present, Brendon Santalab holds the Wanderers record for most goals scored in one season in all competitions with 16 strikes in the 2016/17 season.
With plenty of football still left to play, it’d take a brave person to bet against Riera breaking that mark.
