Marco Kurz hailed Adelaide United’s spirit and desire in their 1-0 extra-time win against Melbourne City in the Elimination Final on Sunday.
Ben Halloran finished off Baba Diawara’s assist in the 119th minute to send Coopers Stadium into an absolute frenzy.
The Reds dominated the majority of the game and did have the better chances, but could not find a way though until a minute before a dreaded penalty shootout.
Kurz was delighted with the team’s performance and believed it was an entertaining game which was a fabulous spectacle for the Hyundai A-League.
“It was a hard game, I think we started very well,” he told reporters in the post-match press conference.
“We had the chance to score one or two goals and that maybe makes it a little bit easier.
“But it was a fantastic game for the supporters and a fantastic game for the A-League I think from both teams.”
https://players.brightcove.net/5498268479001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6033103009001
With 13,232 supporters in attendance, the atmosphere was electric as the noise reverberated around the terraces for 120 minutes.
The German boss said he was thrilled the team was able to deliver the perfect goodbye for the home fans in what was United’s last home game of the season.
He also added it was pleasant seeing the crowd interact with the players after the match.
“It was another fantastic night here in Adelaide,” he said.
“Another fantastic night for the boys and for the supporters, and it’s the best moment for me as a coach after the game to see the supporters together with the boys – the celebrations.
“That is my job to come to this point and I’m very happy for the boys and also for the fantastic supporters today in the stadium again.”
After advancing to the semi-finals of the Finals Series, Adelaide now have an away trip against Perth Glory on Friday night.
Kurz was bullish in his response when asked if he thought the Reds can beat the 2018/19 minor premiers.
“You’ve to beat Perth if you’re to reach the grand final, that’s our clear goal,” he insisted.
“You need a fantastic game, you’ve to defend their offensive line, they’re really fit and are in a better position.
“They had a week off and they don’t have to travel… but I think the boys are fit enough to play a good part in Perth.”
Adelaide United face Perth Glory in a Hyundai A-League 2018/19 Semi-final on Friday, 10 May at HBF Park. Kick-off is at 8.00pm ACST. Live on Fox Sports, 10 Bold and streamed on the My Football Live App and Kayo Sports.
