Carl Veart admits there were plenty of promising signs in Adelaide United’s 0-0 draw with Western United to open the A-League 2020/21 season.
The Reds produced a resolute display to keep a clean sheet while also creating a couple of chances in attack.
Veart said he was content with the result at the post-match press conference.
“If you asked me before the game I would’ve been happy with a point,” Veart told reporters following his inaugural game in charge as permanent Head Coach.
“I think on the balance of the game a draw in the end was a fair result, I think as the game went on we were the side that was more likely to win but I’m happy with our performance.”
Goalkeeper James Delianov impressed on debut, producing four decent saves while cutting a confident presence.
Veart also handed maiden Reds appearances to Yaya Dukuly and Joe Caletti, while Noah Smith made his first start for the Club.
“You look at James (Delianov) in goal, I thought he was magnificent tonight,” he said.
“Young Noah (Smith) at left-back again was very solid, and Yaya (Dukuly) for a 17-year-old, his first start as well in the A-League I thought was very good.
“And you look at the balance of our side, with the youth that we’ve got there, there’s a lot of excitement to look forward to.
“If we had a bit more experience, we most probably would’ve had the three points.”
Veart reserved praised for Delianov when asked further about his quality, and suggested he just needed an opportunity to play
“I’ve said all along when Paul Izzo left and went overseas, I said to Bruce let’s sign James,” he explained.
“I know James I worked with him with the Young Socceroos and I know he’s got huge potential and unfortunately for goalkeepers they don’t get an opportunity until they’re quite old.
“And when we look at the best goalkeeper in Australia at the moment Mat Ryan, he was given an opportunity when he was a young goalkeeper and James is down that path as well I believe.”
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It was also Tomi Juric’s first game for United since 2013 and the boss believed his striker acquitted himself well, particularly given it was his first game in a few months – coupled with spending two weeks in mandatory hotel quarantine.
“Tomi we just need to get used to the way that he plays a little bit more and play with him a bit more,” he said.
“When he was involved he looked very dangerous, he created some really good opportunities for us as well.
“To get 75-80 minutes out of him I’m very pleased with that, considering he’s had three or four training sessions with the group so there’s very big upside with Tomi.
“I believe we’re fortunate enough that we’ve got the best number nine in the country.”
Adelaide’s next match is a home clash with Melbourne City, the Reds’ first game at Coopers Stadium since March.
Veart implored fans to attend and show their support.
“I think it was March the last time we played at home,” he continued.
“So I think our fans can be excited and it’d be great to see them fill Hindmarsh to the capacity that we’re allowed to have next week and get behind this team.
“Because they need that support and especially at Hindmarsh when we have a lot of our supporters there it’s almost like an extra player for us.”
Next match details:
Game date: Sunday, 3 January
A-League 2020/21 Matchweek 2
Kick-off 5.35pm ACDT
Gates open 4.35pm ACDT
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
