A resurgent second-half performance from Adelaide United yielded a 2-1 come-from-behind win against Central Coast Mariners at Coopers Stadium on Sunday night.
The Reds laboured to the victory as George Blackwood’s 92nd minute header at the death proved the difference after Isaías’ initial equaliser.
Here are three things we learned from the encounter:
Tactical tweaks coincided with improved display
Following a largely insipid first-half highlighted by misplaced passes and a lack of penetration, Marco Kurz’s discernment in rectifying the issues at half-time proved pivotal in the contest. The German brought on Ken Ilsø to partner Ben Halloran and then Blackwood in attack as United switched from a 4-3-3 to a 4-4-2 formation. Adelaide appeared more threatening following the alteration, and conveniently it was Blackwood who clinically nodded Adelaide to victory.
Galloway continues to impress
Since moving to the city of churches, full-back, Scott Galloway, is seemingly one of the Reds’ most astute acquisitions over the offseason. The defender was given somewhat of a lifeline to continue his career in the Hyundai A-League after a successful trial with the Club during the off-season. It is without question the 23-year-old has slotted in seamlessly at left-back, delivering a string of consistent performances. His impressive form continued against Central Coast and he capped off the outing with the assist for Blackwood’s goal. Galloway dribbled forward beating two Mariners players before his pin-point cross picked out the head of the young striker.
Adelaide navigate hectic period
Eight matches in just over a month is difficult for any side to negotiate, considering the constant travel and recovery in order to back up adequately after each game. And upon reflection Adelaide should feel quite satisfied from the results they obtained. Adelaide collected four wins – which included defeating rivals Melbourne Victory – and three draws, while suffering one loss during the busy schedule. Their ability to overpower the Mariners in the final 20 minutes after all those games is a testament to Kurz’s arduous pre-season, as the players have remained in top physical condition.
Adelaide United host Brisbane Roar in Round 17 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Saturday, 2 February at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT. Gates open 6.20pm.
