Adelaide United Head Coach Airton Andrioli praised his players’ mentality, leadership and emotional strength after a dramatic 2–1 Original Rivalry victory over Melbourne Victory at a sold-out Coopers Stadium.
Goals from captain Craig Goodwin and a stoppage-time header from Ryan Kitto sealed a famous win, capping an unforgettable night in front of the Red Army and delivering one of the most memorable Original Rivalry wins in recent club history.
Andrioli on the emotion of the moment…
“I’m extremely proud. This is my first win in a game like this, such an iconic fixture in Australian football. To be part of it, in front of a full house and our supporters, gives you a real sense of achievement.”
Andrioli on rewarding the fans…
“We spoke before the game about rewarding our supporters. This club deserves nights like this, and to get the result in front of them makes it very special.”
Andrioli on the roller-coaster nature of the match…
“That moment with the disallowed goal affected us mentally because it took so long, and then suddenly the game is still alive. Credit to the players — they stayed emotionally strong and kept believing.”
Andrioli on leadership from senior players…
“Our experienced players played a huge role tonight. We need that from players like Craig Goodwin and Ryan Kitto. Our foundation is young players, so those leaders are crucial in steadying the ship and keeping the boys in the game.”
Andrioli on Craig Goodwin and Ryan Kitto delivering…
“They understand each other really well. They’ve played together many times, and tonight the execution was at another level. Goodwin was outstanding for the entire game, and Ryan was excellent as well.”
Andrioli on young players stepping up…
“I was really happy with some of the younger boys. Ryan White keeps growing every game, plays with incredible intensity and quality. Brody Burkitt came on in a massive game and did extremely well — he showed real potential.”
Andrioli on debutant AJ…
“Considering he hasn’t played for a while, he did a tremendous job. He’s a different profile to what we have in the squad and gives us another dimension. Really happy with his performance.”
Andrioli on the response to a difficult period…
“This game tested our character, and the response was excellent. Victory are in a good moment, they have quality players, so this result was very important for the confidence of the group.”
Andrioli on the fans at Coopers Stadium…
“It’s an honour to coach this club, in one of the best stadiums in Australia, in front of the best supporters in Australia. To get a result like this in front of them makes it extremely special.”
