Airton Andrioli says Adelaide United’s focus has firmly shifted to consistency as the Reds travel to face Michael Valkanis’ Brisbane Roar on Saturday, following an emotionally charged win last week.
With returning players boosting competition for places and confidence building across the group, Andrioli believes his side is well placed to handle another demanding away challenge.
Andrioli on the squad’s mindset heading into Brisbane…
“Training was good this week. Coming off a positive result, the boys are in a good place. Brisbane is always a tough place to go, the conditions play a part, and they’re a good team, but the group is ready and prepared.”
Andrioli on moving on from the dramatic late loss to Roar earlier in the season…
“That’s behind us now. We felt we shouldn’t have lost that game, but many things have happened since then. The focus is fully on this match and executing our game plan.”
Andrioli on competition for places with players returning…
“It’s always good to have competition and players available. It gives us strength in the starting XI and good options from the bench. Everyone is competing for places and that’s exactly what we want.”
Andrioli on squad availability and injuries…
“Ethan [Alagich] has a low-grade hamstring injury and we don’t expect him to be out for too long, maybe two or three weeks. The other boys are fit and ready.”
Andrioli on last week’s dramatic moments and mental strength…
“The pleasing thing was the mental and emotional stability the players showed. It was an intense, draining game, but they stayed in the moment and found a way to get the result.”
Andrioli on building belief and consistency…
“The word for us moving forward is consistency. We want to be a team that can stay in games, even when things aren’t going our way, and still get results.”
Andrioli on the club-wide momentum, including the women’s team…
“We are one club. Seeing the women get results and build momentum adds positive energy across the whole environment. That’s important for all of us.”
