Ryan Strain believes the bye has been beneficial rather than serve as a hindrance ahead of Adelaide United’s Remembrance Round home clash with Brisbane Roar on Sunday.
The Reds previously played Saturday before last which yielded a 2-1 comeback win away to the Newcastle Jets and marked their third match in a week.
It was made more impressive given that result – the team’s first league triumph of the Hyundai A-League season – arrived three days after the 4-0 trouncing of Melbourne City in the FFA Cup Final.
Consequently, Strain felt the bye came at a perfect time, allowing the squad to rest and recuperate.
He added that the week off should not hamper the momentum they generated from those two victories.
“It gives everyone time away from football because we had a weekend off,” Strain said at a press conference.
“But it would’ve been nice if we kept playing because obviously we were very confident and won two games in a row.
“But everyone has the bye and we’re all refreshed and ready for Brisbane this weekend.”
Brisbane, coached by Liverpool legend, Robbie Fowler, remain winless after three matches, but have drawn twice to start the new campaign.
However, the 22-year-old suggested those results paint a bit of a false picture.
The Roar were extremely unlucky not to have beaten Western Sydney Wanderers at the weekend after creating several golden chances as the match ended 0-0.
“They look like a strong side and have made a few signings,” he said.
“They’ve got obviously Robbie Fowler. He was a great player in England and when I was growing up in England I was watching him.
“There’s not really any players we need to be wary of. They’ve got a lot of experience up front, they’ve got a good midfield.
“But nothing to be wary of, we just have to play our game and do everything right tactically.”
Indeed, Adelaide are at home for the first time since that memorable cup final win and the defender called supporters to again fill Coopers Stadium to create a raucous atmosphere, stating it does make a difference.
“We all love playing at Coopers Stadium,” he explained.
“It’s our home pitch and hopefully the fans get out in numbers.
“As you see when we’ve the fans out there like the game in the FFA Cup (Final) we won 4-0 and they’re just a massive help.
“So hopefully all the fans can get out and hopefully we can deliver again.”
Adelaide United host Brisbane Roar in Round 5 of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season on Sunday, 10 November at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 5.30pm ACDT. Gates open at 2.30pm for curtain raiser between AUFC Legends and ADF. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports, Kayo Sports and the My Football Live App.
