Adelaide United midfielder, James Troisi, believes Saturday night’s instalment of the Original Rivalry will have a little extra spice given the additional subplots.
Troisi will line-up against his former team for the first time since departing Melbourne Victory in May, while ex-United Marco Kurz will be in the opposition dug out.
The 31-year-old said he was really looking forward to Saturday night’s contest at Coopers Stadium.
“I think it’s exciting,” he said to reporters at a press conference.
“Generally, these bigger games, are fun, it’s pretty easy to get up for them so really looking forward to it.”
Troisi stated there were a number of factors that have made the rivalry special, which has added to the passion shared amongst supporters.
Strong squad for a big game. #AUFC #ADLvMVC #OriginalRivalryhttps://t.co/12CUzJkZNP
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) November 21, 2019
“I think just the history with obviously a whole heap of things with Kossie (John Kosmina) and Musky (Kevin Muscat),” he said.
“And I guess this one is a little bit more enhanced, because Marco (Kurz) has gone to Victory and I’ve come to Adelaide, so there’s obviously a little bit more fuel to the fire so to speak to this one, but it’s going to be a nice occasion.”
Troisi said the Reds have somewhat of a tactical advantage since the majority of the squad is familiar with Kurz’s methods.
However, he warned that despite their slow start to the campaign they cannot afford to be complacent.
“I think we know the style of football,” he admitted.
“There’s been five games already this season so just going off of that not too much has changed in terms of his tactics and the way he wants to play.
“But ultimately, it’s completely new and different players, so it’s how they adjust to that.
“They haven’t had the best run, but they’ve got some good players as well. So if you get complacent then they can punish you.”
🚪 Gates open 5:30pm
🎅 @TripleMAdelaide 104.7 photos with Santa
☕️ If we win you win @maccas coffee!
🥫 @Foodbank_SA drive!
🦖 T-Reds: The Race That Stops A Stadium
🥁 Burundi DrummersWhat you need to know ⤵️#AUFC #MoreThanFootball #OriginalRivalryhttps://t.co/5LPpguuMa8
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) November 21, 2019
The creative midfielder has registered two assists in three league matches this season, impressing as a deep-lying playmaker.
“It’s nice to get on the scoresheet but I think my main focus is trying to create as much as I can for the boys,” Troisi explained when asked if he had a goal celebration planned.
“Obviously I’m playing in a little bit more of a deeper role, so I just have to stay focused on doing my job and creating chances and getting as many assists and passes as possible.
“And if I can get on the scoresheet it will be fantastic as well.”
Adelaide United host Melbourne Victory in Round 7 of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season on Saturday, 23 November at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.00pm ACDT. Gates open at 5.30pm. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports, Kayo Sports and the My Football Live App.
