Adelaide United Head Coach, Marco Kurz, says his side’s ability to remain disciplined after conceding a first-half penalty was a huge factor in prevailing over the Central Coast Mariners.
The Reds secured a last-gasp 2-1 win in Gosford after a Daniel Adlung pile driver and 93rd minute volley from Ryan Kitto settled the Round 7 affair on Thursday night.
Kurz said it was vital to break a three-match losing streak ahead of the Westfield FFA Cup title decider against Sydney FC on Tuesday night.
“I think the win was very important and for us a good moment for the next step,” he said in the post-match press conference.
“And that’s the FFA Cup Final, we feel confident to travel to Sydney FC.”
We know Daniel Adlung's wunder-strike is only about 12-hours old, but it just gets better with age. 😎 #CCMvADL #AUFC
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— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) November 16, 2017
The German tactician also lauded his players’ determination and concentration levels after falling behind minutes before the interval.
“… I think we had a great game after the penalty,” he said
“I think it wasn’t a penalty but the players stayed calm and concentrated with a high focus and a big compliment from side to my boys.
“… I think at half-time we said get pressure on the ball, feel confident, and be calm.
“After the penalty a lot of players also I was angry, but in this situation you must be calm and believe in your quality.
“And that’s a big reason that we got the victory today.”
Three points… and that's the way it's gonna be, little darling! 😜 #CCMvADL #AUFC #ForeverUnited
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— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) November 16, 2017
When asked about what it would mean on a personal level to clinch some early season silverware, Kurz insisted his only motivation was to win it for the Club, supporters and players.
“For me it’s not the moment or not the reason to win the trophy,” he said.
“I work for the Club, I work for my boys and when we have the chance to play in the final and get a trophy we will do our best job on Tuesday.
“I think Sydney is the favourite team in the fina, but we have a very good team and we feel confident and we are ready for the final.”
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.
