Jordan Elsey says the entire squad has been left frustrated by Adelaide United’s 2-0 loss to Perth Glory on Remembrance Day at Coopers Stadium.
Adelaide suffered their first defeat in nine matches in what was a somewhat lacklustre display.
The 24-year-old defender said it was a disappointing performance but believes the international break has arrived at an ideal time and will allow the squad to recharge after a busy few weeks.
“Obviously we’re disappointed with the result as it’s the first loss for the season,” Elsey said following a recovery session at the Adelaide United Training Centre.
“And also conceding two goals when we’ve only conceded a handful of goals this year.
“So it’s disappointing as a group including the coaching staff, but I think this break has come at a good time for us to have break and refresh and know what to do next time.”
Elsey said the team going into the game knew it was always going to be a real chess match, but admitted his side lacked a cutting edge going forward.
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The Reds dominated possession but struggled to play penetrating passes into the final third.
Perth then struck in the 73rd minute through Andy Keogh on the rebound before Chris Ikonomidis secured the three points on 90 minutes.
“I think with the heat it was always going to be a tactical battle,” Elsey said.
“We trained all week of what our game plan was going to be and I thought we did well, we had most of the ball.
“It’s just what we did with the ball going forward just wasn’t good enough and I think their first goal was lucky.
“And it was a game where the first team to score was going to win.”
Adelaide United face Wellington Phoenix in Round 5 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Saturday, 24 November at Westpac Stadium. Kick-off is at 5.05pm ACDT. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports and streamed on the My Football Live App.