A new season brings renewed optimism, and with it, another opportunity to lift some silverware.
For Adelaide United’s upcoming Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season, the anticipation and excitement is palpable.
The Reds launch the season against Sydney FC in a massive clash to tantalise the tastebuds.
So here are four reasons to look forward to the new campaign.
A strong pre-season and FFA Cup 2018 campaign
With the majority of the playing roster accustomed to Head Coach, Marco Kurz’s, expectations it was easier for them to adjust and become more familiar with the gruelling pre-season implemented. A successful FFA Cup run coincided with the intensive training sessions, which has since paid dividends, indicative of a second consecutive finals appearance. Moreover, the notion of playing as many competitive matches during pre-season should, at least theoretically, yield positive results in the Hyundai A-League.
Early season silverware on offer
We have not even hit full throttle as the season is yet to officially begin, but as alluded to, the Reds already have the chance to lift some silverware. While Marco will ensure the squad’s focus will be squarely on the first two league games, the FFA Cup 2018 Final will be in the back of the players’ minds.
No doubt the prospect of hearing the noise generated from an expected capacity home crowd at Coopers Stadium come Tuesday, 30 October is a reason to be excited in itself. The Reds also have the ultimate chance of revenge against the Sky Blues, after falling to the same opponent in 2017 decider.
LIVE from @CoopersStadium… The stage is set for the Hyundai @ALeague to officially kick-off with #ADLvSYD tomorrow! #AUFC 🙌🤪
🎟 Tickets: https://t.co/ILDGMQRHGq pic.twitter.com/y7FMq9Espi
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) October 18, 2018
New signings have strengthened squad depth
Marco stated in his pre-match press conference on Thursday that his squad is stronger than last season and it is certainly hard to argue that. Sure some quality players departed the Club over the winter months, but the return of Craig Goodwin, coupled with the arrivals of Ken Ilsø, Michael Jakobsen, Mirko Boland, Ben Halloran, and Scott Galloway bolsters the side. It also provides Marco with more options, while the younger, local players in the team also have another year of professional football under their belts. The competition for places is extremely high.
A new Fans’ Village
Away from the pitch, the Club, together with Coopers Stadium and Adelaide Venue Management is proud to introduce a designated Fans’ Village for supporters to congregate pre-match during the Hyundai A-League season. The precinct, located behind the Aurelio Vidmar (Southern) Stand and next to IGA Family Park, includes a couple of bars and food trucks, enhancing the matchday experience for patrons. For more info on the new Fans’ Village click here.
🙌 New fan village!
🛒 New merch store!
🚗 Entertainment Centre parking just $4!
ℹ️ Other important info#AUFC #MoreThanFootball📰 Read more: https://t.co/DlWDfs22qh pic.twitter.com/DQIcxTmkP5
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) October 18, 2018
Adelaide United host Sydney FC in Round 1 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Friday, 19 October at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports and the My Football Live App.
