Daniel Adlung says Adelaide United must be wary of Wellington Phoenix’s unpredictability at Coopers Stadium on Friday night.
He was also confident his side would deal with the pressure of claiming a win ahead of two tricky away matches in Sydney to finish the regular season.
Adlung said it is difficult to know what to expect from the Phoenix given they have little to play for and sit at the bottom of the Hyundai A-League ladder.
“I think it’s really hard because on their day if they have a good day anything can happen,” he said.
“So it’s dangerous for us and we have to be focused and we have to start our game well and try to have the control of the game, so that’s really important for Friday.”
The industrious German midfielder, who scored a first-half brace against Newcastle Jets last round, praised the influence of Johan Absalonsen since his return from injury.
It's our last regular season home game this Friday and Adult GA tickets are just $20, Junior (6-14) GA tickets are $10 (again). Get around it. #AUFC #ForeverUnited #ADLvWEL
🎟 Tickets: https://t.co/GZPvPZYNXc pic.twitter.com/j1uyMIBPM7
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) March 25, 2018
The Dane has scored two goals in as many weeks to take his league tally to five in eight matches.
“Johan (Absalonsen) you see his quality every day in training,” he said.
“And we missed him a long time and imagine he played the whole season maybe he scores more goals for us.
“And that’s what we missed in the past couple of games that we don’t take our chances.
“So it’s good to have him back and we are happy.”
Adlung further added: “He’s a very intelligent player and has a lot of experience.
“And sometimes you need this experience in different situations so it’s good to have him back.”
Adelaide remains in fifth place in the league standings and know a victory over the Phoenix will put them in a strong position to qualify for finals.
“I think now with the next home game if we get the three points we have a good position in the table,” he said.
“Then two away games in Sydney so I think on Friday there’s a bit of pressure on us but we can handle it.
“We showed it in the last game so we are ready and we’re preparing well for the game against Wellington.”
Adelaide United host Wellington Phoenix in Round 25 of the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 season on Friday, 30 March at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT.
