Although Nikola Mileusnić’s incredible chest-volley screamer against Wellington Phoenix was unable to help Adelaide United secure the win, it did receive the honour of winning the Goal of the Year accolade.
The winger received the ball from Riley McGree’s header on the corner of the 18-yard-box and instinctively controlled the ball on his chest before volleying it on his weaker, left foot.
The ball sailed into the far corner leaving the Phoenix goalkeeper absolutely no chance.
Mileusnić lists the goal as his greatest goal scored with the Reds, but believed his strike in the FFA Cup 2017 Final against Sydney FC was a little more pleasing given the stage.
“It’s definitely the best goal I’ve scored, I really enjoyed it,” he explained.
“But in terms of when it came, the one in the FFA Cup a few years back was probably one I enjoyed a bit more, because it was higher stakes in the game.”
The 27-year-old missed the Reds’ final four regular season matches, due to surgery on his right foot.
Watching from afar he believed the team performed admirably and unlucky to reach the finals.
“In the end the team did very well,” he said.
“It’s always a tough ask to go into a hub with all these uncertainties.
“It’s just amazing how they were all able to keep their focus and just work together for the single goal which was to make finals.
“Unfortunately, we came a bit short but the intent was there and the boys played some super football and hats off to the team and Carl as well.”
Mileusnić added that his recovery is tracking well following the operation and stressed the importance of not rushing back too early.
“I think I’m about four or five weeks out of surgery,” he said.
“I’m not sure exactly how long, it’s all scrambled into one long period but it’s going well.
“I’ve started doing some loading on my legs, my right leg in particular, but just taking it slow and give myself the best opportunity for the next season.”
