Isaías says his Adelaide United teammates are looking forward to their FFA Cup 2018 Semi-final clash knowing what is at stake.
The Reds tackle Victorian National Premier League side Bentleigh Greens at the Kingston Heath Soccer Complex on Friday night for a place in the Final.
Isaías, who recorded his 150th appearance for the Club last week in the 2-0 win against APIA Leichhardt, said the team is aware of the enormity of the match and ensuring complacency does not creep into the mindset of the squad.
“We’re really excited,” Isaías told reporters at the Adelaide United Training Centre.
“We know it’s a big game coming up and we’re trying to work very hard during the week to make everyone ready and to switch on from the start of the week.”
With Adelaide facing the most successful NPL team in the competition’s history, the Spaniard warned his side cannot afford to take them lightly.
The United Captain acknowledged Bentleigh are a dangerous team, anticipating a tricky game, but equally stated if they can dictate terms from the beginning it will give them the best chance of advancing to the title decider.
“We know that they’re a strong team,” he said.
“And we also know that it’s no coincidence that they’re in the semi-finals.
“We know that they play hard, they’ve a very good transition game and we’re ready to play this game.
“We have the experience to play against an NPL side and we know that it’s going to be difficult and that it’s not going to be an easy game.
“But we know that we’re a great team also and we should reach the final.”
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Having suffered defeat to Sydney FC in last year’s final, Isaías said the Reds are hungry to avenge that result this time round.
“We always want to win a trophy,” he said.
“I know it’s not easy, I know a few players that have finished their careers without ever lifting a trophy.
“We have the chance this season again, we’re in the semi-final and hopefully we will get to the final and lift the trophy this season.”
Isaías also felt the squad was gelling together nicely with just over two weeks until the Hyundai A-League season commences.
The 31-year-old maestro adding that the new additions to the squad have adapted well to Marco Kurz’s playing style.
“We’re very happy with everyone,” he said.
“I think the (new) boys have settled in really quickly in the team, they’re very comfortable in the changeroom with us.
“And I think they also fit very well in the system with Marco (Kurz).”
Adelaide United face Bentleigh Greens in the Semi-finals of the FFA Cup 2018 on Friday, 5 October at Kingston Heath Soccer Complex. Kick-off is at 7.00 PM ACST. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports.
