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After losing three of its past four matches another tricky test awaits Adelaide United on Friday when it meets newcomers Macarthur FC for the first time.
The Reds will be desperate to change its fortunes on the road and record a crucial three points to keep pace with the top half of the table.
However, Macarthur’s solid away form juxtaposes their performances at home as they are yet to prevail with a victory at Campbelltown Stadium.
Adelaide suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Perth Glory in its previous outing, while the Bulls secured an impressive 2-0 win at Brisbane Roar on Tuesday evening and sit in fourth spot on the table.
Veart on facing Macarthur…
They’ve recruited very heavily on experienced players. So it’s going to be a good test for us tomorrow night. At home they’ve struggled a little bit so far, they haven’t had good results at home so it’s important when we go there that we make it difficult for them and attack them.
Veart on improving their away fortunes…
I think in those two away games (against Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar) that we lost away from home there was only like five or ten minute periods where we let the game slip out of our own hands. So we spoke to the group about keeping the confidence and keeping the concentration at crucial parts of the game. In those games we conceded goals at crucial parts – just before half-time and just after half-time which can kill you. We spent a bit of focus on that, that we’d stay switched on during those difficult parts in the game.
Veart on George Timotheou…
I thought George did well in the time that he spent on the park last week and I’m really looking to what he brings to the team. He’s a very good passer of the ball and it’s going to be an advantage for us looking forward to tomorrow night’s game.
Team news
Pacifique Niyongabire and Young Reds player Fergus Lynch have been promoted. However, Michael Jakobsen and Javi López are unavailable with calf issues, while Ryan Kitto and Ryan Strain remain sidelined with knee and groin injuries respectively.
See the extended squad here.
Key stats powered by Opta
- Macarthur are yet to win an A-League game at Campbelltown Stadium (D2, L2), and have been outscored 8-3 at their home venue in the competition thus far.
- Adelaide United have kept three clean sheets this A-League season, the joint most of any team.
- Jordan Elsey has made 34 successful long passes this A-League season, the most of any outfield player in the competition
Ones to watch
Tomi Juric’s hold up play will be important against a Macarthur side that like to keep possession of the ball. The striker will need to help relieve some of that pressure which Adelaide will potentially absorb as the game ebbs and flows. Having not scored since that goal against Melbourne City, the 29-year-old will be extra eager to get on the scoresheet as well.
For the Bulls, Spanish midfielder, Benat Etxebarria will be fundamental to their success. Restricting his involvement will be key as the deep-lying playmaker is renowned for his passing and set-piece ability.
Next match details:
Game date: Friday, 12 February vs Macarthur FC
A-League 2020/21 – Matchweek 08
Kick-off 6.35pm ACDT
Venue: Campbelltown Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
