Marco Kurz admits he was reasonably satisfied with Adelaide United’s performance given the situation, despite suffering a 2-0 loss to Sydney FC on Friday night.
United had to adapt after centre-back Michael Jakobsen was unavailable for selection due to back spasms suffered in training on Thursday.
It meant the German boss decided to employ a 3-5-2 formation, an obvious alteration from United’s traditional 4-3-3 system.
Kurz acknowledged the Reds found the opening 20 minutes difficult to adjust to the tactical changes, but was pleased with how the team settled and even looked the more dominant outfit at times.
“In the first-half we needed a little bit of time (to get into the game) because it was not easy for us,” Kurz told Fox Sports after the match.
“We started in a completely new line-up and it was only in theory that we explained to the boys what they had to do.
“Because (Michale) Jakobsen couldn’t play today, it was not possible.
“But I think after twenty minutes we felt more confident in our game and we created a couple of good chances.
“I’m happy with the way we played in the second-half as well and maybe we controlled the game more.
“But we didn’t score the goal and to concede the second goal (while the team was pushing forward) at the end on the counter is normal.”
Once again, 150 @ALeague games for our Captain, @isaias_sc8! 👏👏👏👏👏 #AUFC pic.twitter.com/NVOZNVRJbw
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) March 1, 2019
Adelaide are now winless in four straight games with their position in the top four less secure with Melbourne City and Wellington Phoenix having the opportunity to close the gap with favourable results.
Kurz insisted he was not worried about the team’s current predicament, certain their fortunes will change.
“I’m not concerned because you must think about where we are,” he continued.
“We’re Adelaide United. We’re not Sydney FC, we’re not Melbourne Victory, we’re not Melbourne City, and we’re also not Perth (Glory).
“With the way we played it’s completely okay and I’m happy with the performance from the boys today.”
Adelaide United host Perth in Round 22 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Friday, 15 March at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT. Gates open 6.20pm.
