Adelaide United captain Craig Goodwin says Saturday night’s Original Rivalry against Melbourne Victory is the match he circled the moment he returned to the club, calling it one of the most meaningful fixtures in Australian football.
Goodwin, who rejoined Adelaide from Saudi club Al-Wehda in the off-season, spoke to Ten News Adelaide ahead of the blockbuster clash and made it clear how much the rivalry still drives him.
“Of course, it’s always the first one you look out for,” he said. “Particularly when it’s a home game – but even away, it’s always a big one. It’s a very important game for us, especially coming off two losses. Form kind of goes out the window when you play Melbourne Victory.”
The Reds skipper acknowledged the frustration of last weekend’s result against Brisbane, but insisted performances have been strong and belief within the squad remains high.
“Massively disappointing end result,” he said. “Across the course of the game we played some really good stuff. But at this level, if you have a lapse in concentration like we did, you get punished.
“We’ve been consistent in the way we’re playing, and history suggests consistent performances bring results. It’s the small details we need to get right – and the end product has to start flowing.
Goodwin has taken on a new role this season, operating as a central No.10, and admits one of his continued focuses is getting into more dangerous scoring areas.
“It’s a different role and it brings different responsibilities. I’ve played reasonably well, but I need to find myself in more goal-scoring positions. That’s something we’re working on. I believe myself to be one of the best finishers in the competition – so I need to get in those moments more often.
Despite the tactical tweaks and recent narrow defeats, Goodwin said the group is united, competitive and determined to respond – especially on a stage as significant as the rivalry.
“When you’re playing well and not getting the results, it’s frustrating. But there’s nothing more behind it than passion and wanting to win. We know what this game means. We need to turn it around, get a result, and go there willing to fight, be aggressive and be ruthless.”
He also expects a fired-up Victory side, who have had their own difficult start to the campaign.
“They’re not in the best of ways either,” he said. “When it’s a derby, it gives you that added motivation. They’ll be hungry – the same as we are.”
Goodwin, a fan favourite and now the club’s leader both on and off the field, made it clear that the rivalry still stirs something deep within him.
“Every time these two teams play, the passion, the noise, the energy – it’s special. This is the game you want to be involved in.”
With both clubs desperate for a statement performance, Saturday’s clash promises to deliver the intensity, hostility and history that defines Australian football’s fiercest rivalry – and Goody will be right at the heart of it.
