Michael Marrone said remaining focused for the entire 90 minutes will be key ahead of Adelaide United’s Round 2 clash with Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.
Adelaide fell behind inside the first five minutes against the Wellington Phoenix before playing out a 1-1 draw in Round 1 and will be desperate to secure a win this time around.
Meanwhile, the Roar suffered a 2-0 defeat to kick-start the season against Melbourne City at AAMI Park.
After falling behind early against the Phoenix, Marrone said the team will be looking to start well and avoid any lapses in concentration against John Aloisi’s men.
“I’m not too sure what happened, the first couple of plays Wellington were quite aggressive and got forward,” he told reporters at Adelaide Airport.
“And they managed to get something from a set-piece, we just have to be tight and not anything special, we just have to try and play our own game.
“And be concentrated for the full ninety minutes, that’s all we have to do.”
Marco's squad for #BRIvADL is in! And don't worry, the link won't take you to a gallery ?
? More: https://t.co/WFDjzwlZEk pic.twitter.com/OSL6bFPPfh
— Adelaide United FC (@AdelaideUnited) October 12, 2017
Despite the initial slow start, Marrone was overall encouraged by the Reds’ performance in New Zealand.
“I think we were on the right track,” he said. “We had quite a few opportunities and on another day if we had of changed a couple of things, we could’ve had a different result.
“But it wasn’t to be and we’ll push on, forget last week, and do our best to get three points.”
Marrone lamented Taylor Regan’s injury lay-off but said it now presents a chance for someone else to play.
“This is why we have such a long pre-season and we have such a big squad,” he said.
“And we are lucky to have such a good squad and have everyone available, so it gives someone an opportunity to step up and fill the gap.”
Historically, nothing separates the two teams who have recorded 15 wins apiece, leaving nine draws.
Nevertheless, the Reds have tasted victory in three of their previous five meetings against their opponents and last won at Suncorp Stadium in January 2016, courtesy of a 4-1 win.
? @taylorreegs update
✈️ First trip across the ditch
? Battling the Roar pic.twitter.com/BDPMTNuLBJ— Adelaide United FC (@AdelaideUnited) October 11, 2017
Marrone also praised the form of Danish winger, Johan Absalonsen following an impressive start to life in Red.
The 32-year-old’s header versus the ‘Nix restored parity in what was his second goal for the Club.
“Johan (Absalonsen) has been an excellent addition since he’s joined the Club,” he said.
“What you’re seeing is what he’s been doing in pre-season.”
Team news
Vince Lia returns to the squad after serving his one-game suspension. However, aforementioned, the Reds have been dealt a massive blow after it was announced Regan will be sidelined for up to three months with an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Tarek Elrich continues his rehabilitation from an ACL injury.
Last five meetings
2-1 win @ Coopers Stadium
4-0 loss @ Suncorp Stadium
1-1 draw @ Coopers Stadium
3-0 win @ Coopers Stadium
1-4 win @ Suncorp Stadium
Adelaide United will face Brisbane Roar in Round 2 of the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 season on Friday, 13 October at Suncorp Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT.
