Adelaide United’s ability to collect points when not playing to their maximum is a sign of their winning culture, according to Gunnhildur Jónsdóttir.
The Reds remain undefeated from their opening five matches and the resolve they have shown is indicative of the shift in mentality instilled by Head Coach, Ivan Karlović.
Adelaide travel to the Harbour city to face Sydney FC at Cromer Park on Thursday looking to continue their impressive start.
Jónsdóttir believes the team has been solid to begin the campaign but feels they have room to improve.
“I think we have a lot more to give which is good since we haven’t been beaten,” she said.
“That means there’s only more to come from us but I think it’s getting better and better with each game, confidence is coming.
“I think coming from last season the winning mentality wasn’t there but we’ve been playing well and winning and playing not so well too and getting results.
“Which is a good thing I feel for a team because that means you’re creating that winning mentality that you can have an off day but still win.
“So I think that’s really good for Adelaide United to create that culture.
“I think the girls have just been working hard and on paper we probably don’t have the most talented team, but you can see if you see us play we work hard for each other and the team spirit is definitely something that every team would want to have.”
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The Icelandic international has played every minute of Adelaide’s five matches, including last week’s 2-2 draw against Perth Glory.
She said she has adjusted well to her new surroundings and has enjoyed taking on more of a leadership role.
“I’m one of the oldest players so I’ve got to bring that experience and maybe a little more leadership than maybe what I’m used to because the girls are so young,” the 30-year-old said.
“But I like that role and I hope I can help the team as much as possible to build and become a good team here.
“I’m playing a different position than what I’m used to but I feel like I’ve adapted okay and I think it has to do with good coaching and just having good hard-working players around so it’s been nice.”
Sydney recorded a 5-1 rout of Brisbane Roar last time out, snapping a three-game losing streak.
Jónsdóttir is expecting the Sky Blues to take confidence from that result and warned they must be ready for a tough battle.
“I don’t know too much about them but I know they have a good squad,” she continued.
“Just the result from last game shows they’re building momentum and probably come into the game with full confidence.
“But I think in this league anything can happen, if we work hard as a team we can beat anyone but we can’t be having off days because all the teams are that strong.”
Adelaide United face Sydney FC in Round 7 of the Westfield W-League 2018/19 season on Thursday, 13 December at Cromer Park. Kick-off is at 7.00pm ACDT. Watch Live on Fox Sports or the My Football Live App.
