Supporters of the world game in the Adelaide Hills will be treated to seeing South Australia’s Hyundai A-League team in their own backyard.
Supporters of the world game in the Adelaide Hills region will be treated to seeing South Australia-s Hyundai A-League team in their own backyard as Adelaide United takes on the Adelaide Hills Hawks in a friendly on Wednesday 25 July.
The match at the Hawks Nest in Woodside has been organised to tie in with a four day camp the Reds will have in Strathalbyn as part of their pre season schedule.
The Hills Hawks currently sit second on the table in the State League and have an impressive record this season, particularly at home. Now, with the chance to run out on their home pitch against the Reds, the team from the Hills are sure to provide a competitive and solid first hit out for John Kosmina-s men.
“It-s going to be an important part of our preparation,” Kosmina said.
“I-ve been up in the Hills before when I was coaching Raiders and they (the Hills Hawks) give you a tough work out, so I-m looking forward to it.”
“It will be our first proper match and we need to get our attitude right from the start so we-re going to take it pretty seriously.”
While being a chance for the Reds to blow off the cobwebs, the match will also give the Hawks players a chance to test themselves against the likes of Cassio, Zenon Caravella, Dario Vidosic and co, an experience they can share for many years to come.
In what will be his first time playing in the Adelaide Hills, Reds captain Eugene Galekovic said it is something the players are looking forward to and would kick start their lead in to the 1st Leg of the AFC Champions League showdown with Bunyodkor on September 19.
“It-s good to go out to different areas and hopefully a big crowd comes out and supports both teams,” Galekovic said.
“The Asian Champions League is only ten weeks away so it-s a chance for the boys to prove themselves to show they-re good enough for the starting eleven.”
But just as much as it is about getting some valuable match practise under their belts, Galekovic knows the game is also about the large contingent of junior players in the area having a chance to see United-s stars up close.
“It-s enjoyable going to these regions and hopefully there a lot of kids that came out and have a look on Wednesday night,” Galekovic said.
“Back in my day when I used to go and watch my idols, it used to stay in my memory for a long time and hopefully with us going up there it can inspire them.”
Kick-Off is at 6.30pm and entry is just a gold coin donation. For more information on the game grab a copy of The Courier – Newspaper of the Adelaide Hills.
You can also check out an official Hawks v Adelaide United Facebook page that has been set up for the game.
MATCH DETAILS
Adelaide Hills Hawks v Adelaide United FC
Wednesday 25 July 2012
Hawks Nest, Woodside
Kick-Off 6.30pm
Admission is a gold coin donation
