Goal-scoring hero Ryan Kitto was delighted to help Adelaide United secure a resilient come-from-behind 2-1 win over the Central Coast Mariners in Gosford on Thursday night.
Two second-half goals from Daniel Adlung and Kitto rendered Wout Brama’s 40th minute penalty insignificant and seal a justified result for the Reds after creating a plethora of chances.
Kitto said he was thrilled his side’s persistence and hard work paid off in what was his second goal of the season.
“I’m just happy we got the three points,” he told Fox Sports following the Round 7 clash.
“The boys have been working so hard and to finally get some reward and dig deep and score in the 93rd minute I think it’s a real pat on the back for us.
“And hopefully we can take that into Tuesday night in the FFA Cup Final.”
The win was United’s first in five matches – snapping a three-game losing run – to temporarily move Marco Kurz’s men into fifth spot on the ladder.
Three points… and that's the way it's gonna be, little darling! 😜 #CCMvADL #AUFC #ForeverUnited
🎥 @FOXFOOTBALL pic.twitter.com/F5hFCIgbET
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) November 16, 2017
Despite the recent form slump, Kitto revealed confidence remained high within the dressing room.
“We still had the belief but it’s nice to get that win and really get us back on the right track,” he said.
“We played some decent football over the last few weeks but we haven’t taken our chances and to dig deep tonight and get the three points is massive for the group.”
After scoring the match-winner at the death, the 23-year-old forward showed humility, insisting the most important aspect was getting the victory.
He volleyed home an improvised overhead kick from Mark Ochieng to finish his effort into the bottom corner.
“I don’t care as long as we win,” he said.
“If I can score then I’m happy to score but the three points is the most important thing.
“But we’ll be happy tonight.”
Adelaide United will face Sydney FC in the Grand Final of the 2017 Westfield FFA Cup on Tuesday, 21 November at Allianz Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.00pm ACDT.
