James Delianov believes Adelaide United are trending in the right direction despite a winless start to the Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 season.
The Reds are however unbeaten after three matches to begin the campaign, recording three draws against Perth Glory, Melbourne City and Brisbane Roar.
“Obviously we’d like to win games but at least we’re not losing,” Delianov told reporters at press conference at Coopers Stadium.
“And it’s something we can be positive about and keep building.
“… We’ve got a lot of belief around the Club… And I think it will get stronger as a games go on. We’ve got a lot of depth and a lot of young players so anyone can do a job.”
Delianov said the biggest key to securing an inaugural victory is to be ruthless in the final third.
“I think just being more clinical up front,” he suggested.
“Obviously, Brisbane had some good chances as well but (need to) just keep believing and keep doing what we’re doing and I think it will come.”
The 22-year-old shot-stopper registered his first clean sheet of the season in the 0-0 stalemate against the Roar and produced six saves, highlighted by a double parry to deny Luke Ivanovic.
“As a goalkeeper you want to be as quiet as possible,” he said.
“Every week we’re building and I think we’re quite solid there.”
The Reds entertain old foes Melbourne Victory in the Original Rivalry at Coopers Stadium on Saturday.
Delianov warned they are a completely different team to the one they swept last year.
United mustered three triumphs against the Victorian outfit in a single season in 2020/21 for the first time since 2005/06.
“They’re a great side, really well organised,” he continued.
“We’re doing everything we can to prepare for them.
“With (Tony) Popovic coming in, I’ve got a lot of respect for him – he’s a top coach and they’ve brought in some good players.
“We’re up for the challenge and really looking forward to it.”
Match details:
Saturday, 11 December vs Melbourne Victory
Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 – Round 4
Kick-off 7.15pm ACDT
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Broadcast: Network 10
Stream: Paramount+
