Carl Veart addressed the media ahead of Good Friday’s must-win clash against Wellington Phoenix at Coopers Stadium — Adelaide United’s final home fixture of the regular season.
With Finals Football still within reach, Veart acknowledged last weekend’s below-par showing in Perth but remained focused on the task ahead, calling for a united response from his side. The night could also be an emotional occasion as Isaías celebrates his landmark 286th A-League Men appearance for the Reds, making him the most capped player in the Club’s history.
Veart on the response after Perth defeat…
“It wasn’t a performance we actually turned up to play in, so the players are disappointed. We’ve had a good chat this week and trained hard — now it’s all up to the players tomorrow night.”
Veart on what went wrong in the last match…
“The first 15 minutes we looked quite good, then we just lost all our energy. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly why that happened, but we’ve moved on — we have to.”
Veart on making changes for Wellington…
“We always pick the best team to face the opposition. There will be some changes — Wellington are strong in transition, and last week we were poor in those moments. We’ve addressed that.”
Veart on restoring defensive stability…
“Bart’s [Vriends] performances hadn’t been at the level we needed, which is why he missed last week. But he’s in our best 11, and we need to find solutions defensively. We’re conceding too many soft goals.”
Veart on whether off-field news has been a distraction…
“Possibly. But at the end of the day, the players need to focus on doing their jobs. We’ve got three games left — if we win all three, we play finals football. That’s what’s in front of us.”
Veart on Isaías’ 286th appearance milestone…
“He trains how he plays every day and wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s a great example to the young players. I’ve said before — he’s in the top two or three to ever play for this Club.”
Veart on whether Isaías will start…
“We’ll make that decision tomorrow. Hopefully there are many games still left in him. I believe he can keep adding to this team — and he’s earned the opportunity to be celebrated.”
Veart on Isaías’ legacy at the Club…
“He settled in, embraced the culture and lifestyle. His whole family are now proud South Australians. He intends to stay here for the rest of his life — and we’re proud he calls this home.”
Veart on Isaías as a future coach…
“He’s already a coach on the field for us — in training and games. Maybe we could’ve used him more this season for his leadership. That’s up to him, but I think he’d be an excellent coach.”
