Adelaide United Head of Youth Football, Airton Andrioli, was happy with his side’s efforts in an enthralling 1-1 draw against Croydon Kings at Mount Barker.
Playing in front of local fans at the Summit Sport and Recreation Park in the State’s south-east, a young United side enjoyed the occasion.
“It was a great experience and it’s always good to try and promote and expand the game in these areas where football might not be such a regular thing,” Andrioli said.
“It was quite scenic overlooking the hills and we enjoy going up to such a great facility in what was our third visit now.
“The fans were fantastic and I hope they enjoyed the experience as much as we did.”
United went ahead after 19 minutes through a classy Nathan Amanatidis move and finish that began with the pace of Panashe Madanha out wide.
It didn’t deter their opponents who soon hit back through Meiya Hisamoto, who showed his class with a composed finish that capped a counter-attack and delivered Croydon the ascendency.
If not for goalkeeper, Ethan Cox, the score line could have read quite differently for a tiring United outfit.
“I think it was a fair outcome and I said to the coaching staff through the second half that if we could get a point then it would be a good result, so credit to Croydon,” Andrioli said.
“They stuck to their plan in the second half and maybe we should have put the game away in the first, but it wasn’t to be this time.
“The way the game went it was probably a fair finish as they were quite organised while we were probably a bit flat in the second half.
“Our game prior against Campbelltown was a huge effort physically and emotionally, so we can be content to walk away with the point.”
The result saw United surrender top spot on goal difference to MetroStars – who thrashed Sturt Lions 0-5 at the weekend – after the first 10 games.
Meanwhile, it was heartbreak for United’s reserves, who suffered an injury time loss at the hands of Croydon substitute, Lachlan Docherty.
He cancelled out Patrick McGregor’s 62nd minute equaliser to leave his team in sixth spot, right in the middle of the table.
The Reds will next travel to West Beach to take on West Adelaide who currently sit in the second half of the standings in both Seniors and Reserves competitions.
“We never look at the ladder too much because anyone can beat anyone on their day, so we will be as prepared as possible for a dangerous game against West Adelaide this week,” Andrioli said.
“It won’t be an easy match away from home, but after a bit of a rest for the boys I’m sure they will be good to go and rise to the challenge.”
The Reserves will clash at 12:45pm on Saturday before the Seniors take the stage at 3:00pm, at West Beach Parks Football Centre.
Upcoming match details:
2023 RAA NPL SA – Round 11
West Adelaide vs Adelaide United
Saturday, 6 May April 2023, Kick-off: 3:00pm (ACST)
West Beach Parks Football Centre
