Nikola Mileusnić described scoring the winning goal to complete an unprecedented comeback as an “amazing feeling” after sending Coopers Stadium into delirious scenes.
The 25-year-old netted a 97th minute header as Adelaide United fought back from 3-0 down to register an inspiring 4-3 win against Brisbane Roar on Saturday night.
Mileusnić said it was one of the best moments in his career to date, before adding that the events that unfolded will live with him forever.
“It was very special for me and I’ll definitely remember it for the rest of my life,” Mileusnić told reporters at a press conference.
“To go 3-0 down and then comeback I’m just so proud of the boys and it was just an amazing feeling, and we’ll all cherish that memory and look back on it when we get older.”
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Two substitutes combined as youngster, Carlo Armiento’s sweeping cross from the left picked out the winger at the back post, who was brought on at half-time.
“That was a crazy moment for me, the cross was unbelievable from Carlo and I’m very happy for him, proud of Carlo,” he said.
“I just thought I’d try and get it across the ‘keeper and it did and came off my head well and went in and it was an amazing feeling and happy to get all the boys around me.”
United were reduced to 10 men when Ken Ilsø was sent off as the Roar then scored three unanswered goals. However, an exquisite free-kick from Isaías on the verge of half-time proved the catalyst.
Brisbane then saw two players dismissed following the re-start and Adelaide took full advantage, thanks to goals from Craig Goodwin and George Blackwood to restore parity.
Mileusnić, who has now scored four goals for the campaign, said Head Coach, Marco Kurz, was more thrilled about the victory rather than conceding three goals, given the circumstances.
“He’s definitely happy with the win, we got three points and that’s what we came out to do,” he said.
“I don’t think anyone would’ve seen the events that happened in the game before the game, but we’ll definitely have a meeting and talk about where we can improve.
“And what we did wrong and what we did well and looking into next week we’ll try and improve what we need to improve on.”
Mileusnić said the loan signing of Dutch striker, Jordy Thomassen, is a welcomed boost and will only increase the competition for places and quality in the team.
“Getting (Jordy) Thomassen in is very good for the squad,” he continued.
“It’ll put pressure on the boys and I think he’ll do great for us and in terms of competition it’s healthy and it’s good for the coaches to have that little bit of a headache in terms of selection. It just pushes us and improves our team.”
Adelaide United face Melbourne City in Round 18 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Saturday, 9 February at AAMI Park. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT. Live on Fox Sports, 10 Bold and streamed on the My Football Live App and Kayo Sports.
