Massimo Murdocca featured in all 27 matches during his first Hyundai A-League campaign with Melbourne Heart FC, demonstrating he was, alongside the likes of Patrick Kisnorbo, a model of consistency.
Massimo Murdocca featured in all 27 matches during his first Hyundai A-League campaign with Melbourne Heart FC, demonstrating he was, alongside the likes of Patrick Kisnorbo, a model of consistency.
Of the 27 matches, Murdocca started 26 and made one appearance off the bench, and was a prominent and energetic figure in Melbourne-s midfield. The diminutive midfielder polled third in the Club-s Player of the Year Awards, behind David Williams (first) and Orlando Engelaar (second).
Possessing a high work-rate and stamina to rival most A-League players, Murdocca joined Melbourne Heart in the off-season from Brisbane Roar and was recruited to bring experience and valuable leadership to the midfield from his time at the now three-time champions.
Following his championship-winning experience as part of Brisbane for eight seasons, Murdocca returned to his original home of Melbourne , where he first forged a path for his career during his National Soccer League years, when he played for South Melbourne.
As a midfield dynamo and energetic workhorse, Murdocca provided an agile and quick outlet from defensive midfield as he worked to shield the back four while providing forward thrust on occasion.
During the recent 2013-14 campaign, Murdocca created 16 chances and contributed three assists, with the majority of his work as a number six, linking defence to attack, and despite a noticeable difference in physical stature, he formed a formidable partnership with Engelaar.
Never one to shy away from commitment, he was handed three yellow cards, and although Murdocca is not a player known for his goal scoring, he demonstrated a propensity for high quality passing and overall leadership.
What did you make of Murdocca’s performance this past season? Let us know your rating out of 10 across Facebook and Twitter.
