Marco Kurz admits Adelaide United must show courage and belief in their Elimination Final against fierce rivals Melbourne Victory if they are to advance to the semi-finals.
The Reds will go into the clash at AAMI Park on Sunday night as underdogs given they are away from home and the fact Kevin Muscat’s men finished above United in the regular season.
However, Kurz said the boys are relishing the opportunity to play in the Elimination Final and come into the match with a lot of confidence.
“We’re looking forward to it because for us it’s a big success to reach the finals,” Kurz said.
“We’re one of six teams to play in the finals and we’re happy, we know about the strong game away against (Melbourne) Victory.
“But we’re looking forward and I think in one game all can happen and we travel to Melbourne with a lot of trust and belief and confidence in our ability.”
https://players.brightcove.net/5498268479001/default_default/index.html?videoId=5773614260001
No side has ever reached the grand final from outside the top three in Hyundai A-League Finals Series history.
Kurz insisted that statistics are there to be broken and was not dwelling on the past, rather focusing on one game at a time.
Adelaide have also never won a finals game on the road, but Kurz said the Reds can take assuredness from their successes against Melbourne throughout this season.
“The statistic or history for me is not important,” he explained.
“For me what’s important is that it’s one game, it’s a knockout game against a very strong and experienced team away.
“It’s also not easy because it’s a derby but we’ve the experience from the league game and also the cup game.
“We’ve beaten them two times and also away, a good draw at home and a loss away.
“Victory is the favourite and we’re the underdog but we’re hungry for success and hungry to reach the next round.”
The German tactician added that limiting the involvement of Victory’s attacking quartet, by stopping the supply will be crucial.
“Victory I think they’ve a very good offensive line and are a very strong opponent,” he said.
“But we’re confident and I think each player must give everything in each moment of the game, that we’re brave and we must also eliminate the offensive players and use our chances.”
Adelaide United face Melbourne Victory in the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 Elimination Final on Sunday, 22 April at AAMI Park. Kick-off is at 5.30pm ACST.
