With Adelaide United’s clash against Newcastle Jets fast approaching, we take a closer look at three dangermen the Reds should look out for when the two sides meet on Sunday at Coopers Stadium.
Miloš Trifunović
Former Red Star Belgrade and FC Bunyodkor striker, Miloš Trifunović, joined the Jets at the start of the 2015/16 season. He’s begun life in the Hyundai A-League in tremendous fashion, already netting four goals in his opening six games, including a brace in Newcastle’s dramatic 3-2 win over Melbourne City in Round 4. A constant danger going forward in the Jets’ last match against Central Coast Mariners, Trifunović scored an incredible glancing header past former Reds ‘keeper, Paul Izzo, demonstrating his aerial prowess is just as prolific as his skills with the ball at his feet. United must watch Trifunović closely as he will look to get in behind the Reds’ defensive lines at every opportunity.
Round 6:
Goals: 1
Shots on Targets: 2
Shot Assists: 1
Duels Won: 16.7%
David Carney
Having represented the Socceroos 48 times and amassed over 60 appearances in the Hyundai A-League with the Jets and Sydney FC, 31-year-old Carney is a veteran of Australian football. Previously enjoying spells with Sheffield United, Norwich City, FC Twente, Blackpool, and New York Red Bulls, Carney’s experience and quality is renowned in the competition. With three assists and two goals so far this campaign, including an outstanding strike against Melbourne Victory in Round 3, Carney’s quality out wide could see him link up with the Jets’ frontmen, Trifunović in particular, to drastic effect. The Reds must nullify Carney’s impact on the flanks and limit his possession of the ball as much as possible.
Round 6:
Passing Accuracy: 79.5%
Shot Assists: 2
Total Crosses: 7
Successful Crosses: 28.6%
Nigel Boogaard
Centre-half, Nigel Boogaard, left the Reds to join and Captain his hometown club, Newcastle, for the start of the 2015/16 season. Appearing for United over 100 times, Boogaard is very familiar with the way in which the Reds like to play, having been somewhat of an expert at it himself. In general, his understanding of the game is paramount to his style of football, whilst his awareness helps him break up opposition offensive play often. Strong in the tackle and dominant in the air, Boogaard’s familiarity with United’s forwards could either work in the Jets’ favour, or hinder their chances if the Reds purposely vary their forward dynamic.
Round 6:
Tackles Won: 100%
Clearances: 4
Aerial Duels Won: 100%
Interceptions: 4
