The Adelaide United Youth Team travel to Renmark as part of the National Premier League’s Regional Round, facing West Adelaide on Saturday afternoon.
The Young Reds will play their first regional game this weekend as part of the National Premier League’s (NPL) Regional Round, coming of a solid 1-1 draw with Croydon Kings in Round 5.
United’s Youth Team Head Coach, Mark Jones, said that he is also confident in his squad’s abilities to perform well against West Adelaide, as his side looks continue the progress they’ve already made this season.
“We didn’t have a game last week due to it being a cup round, but we trained like normal and it was a good chance for our boys to work on their fitness levels and improve their work ethic overall,” Jones said.
“The team has continued to train hard on being defensively sound, especially with set pieces, a main issue we need to work on as that is how we have conceded most goals this season.
“It is just about getting into the habit of it, and the more we train, the better we will get at defending those set pieces and playing overall. But in general, there is no doubting the work ethic of this team, and they can achieve anything with this hard work.”
Jones also praised the notion of taking the NPL to Renmark, saying it’s a great opportunity not just for his players, but for the locals and the game of football itself.
“The boys are excited to play up in Renmark and it will be a good opportunity to grow and bond as a team.
“It will also be great to expose and promote the game, and show that any players who have football aspirations can make it, just like Samed (Altundag) who grew up playing his football in Renmark.
“To get a win over there will top it off, and we’ll go out their on Saturday afternoon to play our best football.”
Looking at the Young Reds’ opposition, Jones noted the fact that West Adelaide is one of the top teams in South Australia, but emphasised the importance to focus on how his own team play on the day.
“I know West Adelaide are a good team, one of the best in South Australia,” he continued. “But the main focus is on ourselves and how we play.
“It’s important to focus on our game and stick to our game plan, and play like we have been.
“Of course we will make a few changes with formation and tactics to suit West Adelaide, but our minds have to be there and to play the Adelaide United way.”
To stream this match live, click here.
Adelaide United Youth Team will face West Adelaide in Round 6 of the PlayStation 4 National Premier League on Saturday, 16 April at Renmark Oval. Kick-off is at 3.00pm ACST.
