Carl Veart spoke to the media following Adelaide United’s 5-3 loss to Melbourne Victory, expressing frustration at a controversial VAR penalty that swung the momentum. Despite a spirited fightback to lead 3-2, the Reds couldn’t hold on. Veart praised the team’s effort and the travelling fans, but admitted defensive issues and a lack of belief are hurting results. He remains hopeful the squad can regroup and find form in the final weeks.
Veart on the controversial penalty decision…
“We want the players on the pitch to make the decisions that influence games, not the officials. That’s what’s happened tonight—it changed the whole momentum of the game. Pana [Kikianis] clearly got a touch on the ball, the on-field decision was correct, and I don’t understand why it was overturned. I’d like an explanation.”
Veart on the impact of VAR…
“It’s killing the emotion from games. We have a product that’s already hard enough to sell to the public, and instead of talking about the football, we’re talking about this. It’s just not good enough.”
Veart on the performance…
“We weren’t at our best tonight. We were very shaky on the ball, which is unlike us. But despite that, we found a way to get in front, and to then have a decision like that go against us—it just zapped the energy out of the players. It’s tough.”
Veart on defensive struggles…
“Too many times this year, we’ve conceded far too many goals. That makes it very difficult to win football matches. We have to take responsibility, and maybe we as a coaching staff need to look at changing how we defend.”
Veart on turning things around…
“It’s about belief. You can’t go from being undefeated in the first 13 games to now lacking belief. We need to stay positive, keep showing the players the good moments, and rebuild that confidence.”
Veart on the role of youth…
“We’re fortunate to have a good group of young players. It’s about putting the right support around them and using their energy and enthusiasm to help rejuvenate the team in this final stretch.”
Veart on the club’s inclusive culture…
“Our supporters always feel part of the club, and that’s powerful. It’s about creating a safe, inclusive environment—and it’s taken time, but we’re proud of what we’ve built. It’s a credit to everyone at the club.”
Veart on the travelling Red Army…
“Our travelling fans were fantastic tonight. Loud, passionate, and right behind us. I’m glad they came—we even brought their drum over for them! That’s the type of support that drives us.”
