Carl Veart praised Adelaide United’s resilience and never say die attitude after yet another rousing comeback.
Adelaide had to muster a second-half fight back after conceding first for the 11th time this season to beat Central Coast Mariners 2-1 at Coopers Stadium.
Hiroshi Ibusuki displayed his predatory instincts inside the box pouncing on a goal-mouth scramble on 52 minutes, before Nestory Irankunda dispatched a phenomenal finish that rifled into the top corner following a clever lay off from Lachlan Barr in stoppage time.
“That’s credit to the players,” Veart told reporters in the post-match press conference.
“They don’t give up, they fight hard… That’s their spirit.
“It was difficult for them tonight, we were a little bit flat at the beginning.
“We made a couple of changes at the end, brining Nestory (Irankunda) on who has that x-factor, a little bit of speed with Mo (Mohamed Toure) as well.”
Adelaide’s tendency for the dramatic is indicative of the squad’s temperament according to Veart.
The Reds have recovered 16 points from losing positions this campaign – an incredible effort.
They have also scored nine goals on and beyond the 84th minute in 2021/22.
“The players have a great bond between themselves, their attitude, their winning mentality is second to none,” he said.
“We saw that tonight again, I don’t know how many times it comes (late goals).
“I suppose teams have to be aware of that now because our team will keep fighting until the end.
“Central Coast, third game in a week for them as well, it’s tough, they’re playing some good football.
“I thought they were quite good tonight as well, so difficult side to play against because they bring a lot of energy. So very proud of our playing group.”
English midfielder Zach Clough also made his home debut after three appearances on the road.
Veart believed he is continuing to improve but said they must improve at playing to his strengths.
“I think you saw tonight when he came on the quality that he has,” Veart said, lauding his technical ability.
“The way he finds the ball, he’s a different player to what we’ve got here. He takes up great positions, he’s always looking for the ball, always looking to play those passes in behind.
“We have to get a little bit more used to playing with him and get him the ball more.
“The more we can get him the ball, the more opportunities we’ll get.”
