Adelaide United will be hoping to put behind its recent struggles and collect three points at Coopers Stadium on Sunday against Brisbane Roar and keep pace with second spot.
The Reds lost 4-1 to Melbourne City on Thursday and extended its winless run to five-games.
However, the short turnaround may serve as a blessing in disguise, with the squad unable to dwell on the result for long.
Carl Veart attributed the defeat to “small details”, believing the scoreline flattered City as they capitalised on its chances while Adelaide were less clinical.
Regardless, United will need to find a way of rectifying its fortunes if it is to beat the Roar and keep alive its aspirations of a second place finish.
Brisbane, who trail the South Australians by one point, come into the clash having encountered just one setback in its previous nine games. That 3-2 loss incidentally occurred against the ladder leaders in City last weekend.
Veart on City setback and needing to be more clinical…
The scoreline shows it was a blow out but when you look at the balance in the game, we conceded the first two goals from set-pieces and you can’t afford to give goals like that away especially to a side like Melbourne City. And then we went pretty hard to try and get something and you always leave yourself a little bit open at the other end, especially against a quality side like that. We went pretty hard at them and at the end of the day, we’ve given away three set-piece goals and one from open play at the end.
So we’re disappointed that we didn’t make the most of our opportunities when we had control in the game and that’s what happens. That’s the only thing that’s sort of letting us down at the moment, we’re just not making the most of the opportunities when we’re in control of the game.
Veart on Yengi’s strengths…
He came on and did well on Thursday night. We know what Kusini brings. He brings that enthusiasm and energy and he’ll play tomorrow night and hopefully he’ll get back on the goal-scoring sheet.
Veart on López and Jakobsen returning…
It’s a huge benefit for the playing group. They’re both into the squad for tomorrow night. The experience that they have and in big games that’s what at times you’re lacking. It’s only small stuff that we’re missing and just that extra experience that those two bring will help.
Team news
Javi López returns to the squad from injury and Ryan Strain is back from a one-game suspension. Meanwhile, Michael Jakobsen, Juande and Pacifique Niyongabire have all been promoted.
Joe Gauci has been ruled out for an extended period of time with a quad injury he picked up in the warm up prior to the match against Melbourne City. Tomi Juric is also unavailable due to a calf strain. However, the full extent of his injury will be determined in the upcoming days due to the quick turnaround between matches.
Head-to-head
Played: 49
Wins: 21
Draws: 9
Losses: 19
Last five meetings
3-1 loss (A)
0-1 win (A)
2-1 loss (A)
1-0 win (H)
3-5 win (A)
Ones to watch
Whether he starts from the outset or introduced at some stage, Kusini Yengi is someone you cannot afford to take your eyes off. He has a knack of making things happen and combines great hold up play with excellent ball control and dribbling ability. The 22-year-old has appeared as a substitute in the last four games and is always impactful. Yengi will certainly be looking to add to his three goals for the season.
Riku Danzaki could be pivotal for the Roar with his movement and goal-scoring ability from midfield. The Japanese attacking midfielder has scored seven goals this season and provides Brisbane with a lot dynamism.
Match details:
Sunday, 16 May vs Brisbane Roar
A-League 2020/21 – Matchweek 21
Kick-off 5.40pm ACST
Gates open 4.40pm ACST
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
