Marco Kurz hailed his side’s ability to grind out a crucial 1-0 win over Central Coast Mariners in Gosford on Sunday.
Isaías’ spectacular volley in the 35th minute proved the difference and ends a five-match winless streak.
Kurz said the win, which lifts the Reds into fifth place and three points adrift of fourth-placed Wellington Phoenix, is a testament to the players’ work-rate.
“I think it was a very important win for us today,” he told reporters in the post-match press conference.
“We need points to reach our goal and the goal is to reach the final and the boys did a good job today, and we’re very happy to the three points.”
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Kurz said his side rode their luck in the first-half before taking the lead somewhat against the run of play.
He also praised his team for having to adjust tactically following the injury to Ryan Strain, forcing him off the field in the 17th minute, and felt United controlled the game in the second stanza.
“I think in the first-half Central Coast had the better chances but we scored the goal,” he said.
“In the second-half I think we had to score the second goal in the first ten minutes.
“But we didn’t and then you must wait until the end (of the game), but it was not easy.
“After the injury to Ryan Strain we had to change again our line-up and put our offensive winger back in the full-back position.
“But in the second-half I think it was a very serious game from our side we controlled the game; and in the end it was very important to get a clean sheet and that means we’ve an important three points.”
Indeed, Adelaide battle Wellington at Coopers Stadium this weekend with a chance to draw level on points with the New Zealand outfit.
“We’re very hungry, every player is very hungry, me as a coach as well,” he continued
“And if we’ve a chance to win against a very good team in Wellington, they’re doing a great job, then we will do our best and we’ll see if we can beat them but that’s the aim for next week.”
Adelaide United host Wellington Phoenix in Round 24 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Sunday, 7 April at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 4.30pm ACDT. Gates open 3.30pm.
