Craig Goodwin has claimed Adelaide United will not be using the short turnaround and travel as an excuse ahead of their Hyundai A-League Semi-Final against Perth Glory on Friday night.
Adelaide defeated Melbourne City in extra-time in the Elimination Final on Sunday, but after a game that was physically demanding Goodwin insisted they must move on.
Goodwin revealed that the squad has recovered well, adding their arduous pre-season and season proper means fatigue will not be a major issue.
“I think everyone is in good condition considering the 120 minutes,” the winger told reporters in a press conference at Coopers Stadium.
“I think the thing we’ve to focus on is not using 120 minutes as any type of excuse for this game.
“It’s a short turnaround we know that, but we’ve the time and we’re fit enough from this season and pre-season to go out against Perth on Friday and play as we always do.”
After that thrilling victory over City, coupled with the fact Adelaide are currently on a six-match invincible streak – keeping four clean sheets in the process – there is plenty of reason for optimism.
Perth were crowned minor premiers, losing just three times during the regular season.
However, Goodwin said with United at full strength they are confident they can cause an upset.
“I think we’re a very confident,” he said.
“Obviously we know Perth finished top this year and they’ve got a great side, and a great coach, and it’s going to be a tough game.
“Obviously they’re going to be the favourites, but on our day we can beat anyone and we’ve got everyone back fit and everyone ready to go.”
The 27-year-old was also asked if this was his best campaign to date as a professional after returning to the Club from a two-year spell in the Netherlands.
“I think so,” Goodwin said, who scored 10 goals and laid on a further nine assists in 27 league games.
“I feel like I’ve managed to step up in that area and I felt like I needed to coming back from Europe and I guess a bit of a point to prove.
“And I have been able to pitch in quite a lot with goals and assists so I’m happy from that aspect.
“But mainly I’m happy that I’ve been able to help the team and together we’ve put ourselves in a great position.
“We’ve won the FFA Cup and now we’re in the semi-finals of the league and anything can happen from here.”
Adelaide United face Perth Glory in a Hyundai A-League 2018/19 Semi-final on Friday, 10 May at HBF Park. Kick-off is at 8.00pm ACST. Live on Fox Sports, 10 Bold and streamed on the My Football Live App and Kayo Sports.
