Adelaide United’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle Jets at Coopers Stadium on Friday night was a fair result, according to Head Coach Marco Kurz.
The Reds fought back to claim a point thanks to Craig Goodwin’s brilliant header off a superb Michael Marrone cross.
Ronald Vargas initially gave the Jets the lead in the 52nd minute with a clinical finish after punishing some sloppiness by the hosts.
Kurz said he was disappointed with his side’s first-half display but was proud of the team’s determination following the interval.
“I think when I see the whole ninety minutes in the first-half we were not really comfortable to press high,” Kurz said in the post-match press conference.
“I think we dropped too far back and allowed them to play too easily in their positions.
“We defended well, but it was not the game I expect in the first-half.”
He added: “In the second-half we were better, but the first goal (we conceded) we can clear the ball twice and it’s too easy. But the boys know this.
“Then we came back, we scored the equaliser and then after the equaliser it was up and down and both teams fought for the win.
“But the draw is okay, but we’ve big injuries which is more important.”
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The game reached a tipping point late on when Newcastle goalkeeper, Glen Moss collided into George Blackwood, without making contact with the ball.
Blackwood was subsequently forced to leave the field with the German confirming his striker had broken his collar bone.
Despite United unlucky not to be awarded a penalty and a chance for the three points, Kurz said he has seen promising signs from their opening two league draws ahead of the FFA Cup 2018 Final.
He said the Sky Blues will be just as motivated for the title as they will be on Tuesday night.
“We played a good game against Sydney, today also the intensity was good,” he said.
“Sometimes the quality is not good, but that’s football you cannot play every game on the same level.
“I’m happy with the intensity, with the performance and the heart from the boys that they bring every second on the pitch.
“And on Tuesday it’s a final, both teams will be well prepared and both teams will be hungry for the trophy.”
Adelaide United host Sydney FC in the FFA Cup 2018 Final on Tuesday, 30 October at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.00pm ACDT. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports and the My Football Live App.
