“I’m Like a Proud Dad”: Stenta Pays Tribute to United’s Record-Breaking Campaign

Adelaide United’s record-breaking Ninja A-League Women’s campaign came to an end on Saturday following a 6-2 aggregate semi-final loss to Melbourne Victory. Despite the result, the Reds exit the 2024/25 season with pride – reaching a first-ever semi-final, finishing third, and earning widespread respect across the competition.

Head Coach Adrian Stenta reflected on the performance and the season with pride and optimism.

Stenta on the early goal’s impact…
“We needed to score first. That was the plan, and conceding so early made things incredibly difficult. It’s been a theme in all our games against Victory this season. They’re an excellent side with real finals experience, and full credit to them – they’ve earned their place in the Grand Final. But that first goal was a real gut punch.”

Stenta on Adelaide’s inability to crack Victory and City in 2024/25…
“Context is important. We’re further back on the road than those teams – they’ve had consistent success in recent seasons, while we’re still building. We’ve made huge inroads this year. Now, the starting point is much further along. If we show the same growth next year that we did this year, there’s no reason we can’t compete right at the top.”

Stenta on how the Reds will aim to maintain this success…
“We want to keep as much of this group together as we can. Continuity will be key. Obviously, there’ll be some changes – that’s natural – but the blueprint is there now. The Club needs to keep resourcing this team properly. This group now knows what it takes to be successful across a full season and into finals.”

Stenta on his overwhelming pride in the group…
“I’m like a proud dad, watching his kids grow up. Last year couldn’t have gone worse. This year, these players have worked incredibly hard, and they’ve turned things around in a massive way. They now believe they belong. That’s going to stay with them. They’ve set a new standard.”

Stenta on the lessons this finals campaign will bring…
“We didn’t compromise who we are. Even five goals down on aggregate, we were still playing, still attacking, still trying to express ourselves. That’s the culture we want to build. That’s the identity we’re proud of. And that’s the foundation we’ll continue to build from.”