A battle for the A-League’s wooden spoon may not sound like intriguing football – but when coaches Miron Bleiberg and John Kosmina are involved, life is never dull.

They have patched up their differences since the extraordinary post-match sideline exchange in 2005 when the pair had to be separated by security.

However, their presence should still ensure a cellar dweller battle with a twist at Skilled Park on Sunday.

Bleiberg’s dead-last Gold Coast United (3-6-10 win-loss-draw record) need to start winning to avoid the dreaded spoon.

And Kosmina must spark second-last Adelaide United (4-8-8) after they have gone six games without a win.

All signs indicate fans may be in for a treat.

Bleiberg didn’t look like a big Kosmina fan seven years ago when, as Queensland Roar coach, he was involved in a lively argument with his opposite number when they were supposed to shake hands following Adelaide’s 2-1 win.

However, Bleiberg said he was glad to see Kosmina – who has returned to Adelaide United following a stint with Sydney FC – back in the A-League.

“In the old days Kossie and I had a big rivalry, but now we are both a bit older and a bit more mature,” Bleiberg said.

“Over the years our relationship has grown and I think we both found out that we have a lot in common.

“We are on very friendly terms and I’m always happy to see him.

“I’m glad he’s back coaching in the A-League.”

Bleiberg hoped to use the Adelaide United clash as a launching pad away from the cellar.

Easier said than done looking at Gold Coast’s nightmare injury list.

They will look more like their National Youth League line-up on Sunday with Bleiberg sweating on eleven regulars including leading goalscorer James Brown (ankle), key playmaker Peter Jungschlager (hip) and star forward Maceo Rigters (foot).

Defender Dylan McGowan has also been drafted into the Olyroos squad as cover for the injured Sebastian Ryall.

But goalkeeper Jerrad Tyson is expected to return from a wrist injury.

Despite his fitness crisis, Bleiberg believed the pressure would be on an underperforming Adelaide roster including Bruce Djite, Sergio van Dijk and Dario Vidosic.

“I’m sure both clubs wouldn’t have imagined at the start of the season that we would both be where we are on the ladder at the moment,” Bleiberg said.

“They have a very strong roster so it’s a bit of a surprise for them to be near the bottom and perhaps that puts them under more pressure.”