Adelaide United Head Coach Airton Andrioli says his side has regrouped positively after Monday’s narrow defeat to Macarthur FC and is ready to respond against Auckland FC on Saturday afternoon at Go Media Stadium.
The Reds created numerous chances in Campbelltown but were left to rue missed opportunities. Andrioli insists the lessons from that performance have been taken on board as his side prepares for a strong Auckland outfit in front of a large home crowd.
Andrioli on the team’s response this week:
“The mood has been very good. Obviously, we were a little disappointed with the result on Monday because I think we did enough to deserve a better outcome. But football’s an interesting game – you learn that you have to be more clinical and take your opportunities. That was the takeaway for us. We’ve trained well this week, and the focus is already on putting that right tomorrow.”
On extended time away with the squad:
“We’ve got a good group with great chemistry among the players and staff, so that’s not an issue at all. But being away together gives us a bit more time to connect, to talk to individuals, and to keep strengthening those relationships. The boys have been positive, and we’re looking forward to putting in a strong performance tomorrow.”
On squad health and selection:
“Everyone pulled up well from the Macarthur game. Of course, they were a bit sore after the match, but there’s no reason for us to make changes. Some players did really well last week, and others know there are areas to improve – so it’s important to give them that continuity to get better. We’re ready to go.”
On playing in front of a big Auckland crowd:
“If you ask any footballer, they’ll tell you they’d rather play in front of 15,000 people than 2,000. It’s exciting – Auckland’s supporters are passionate, just like ours at home. We’re looking forward to that atmosphere. Hopefully we can perform to our standards and get the result we’re after.”
On what to expect from Auckland and how to win:
“They’re a tough opposition – a very good team that had a great season last year and haven’t changed much in terms of players or their style. They defend well, they attack well, and they make things difficult for you. For us, it’s about doing what we did well last week but being more clinical with our chances. We know we can create opportunities with the players we have and the way we play, but we also need to defend strongly as a team. If we do both sides well, we can get a result.”
