Ivan Karlovic hopes to repeat their recent performance against Newcastle Jets and says his Reds can take confidence into Sunday’s match with league leaders, Brisbane Roar, at Marden Sports Complex.
The Reds produced an emphatic 1-2 victory over Newcastle in Round 11, which has boosted their confidence towards the end of the season.
Brisbane played out a stalemate with Melbourne City in a heated battle last week at AAMI Park.
Karlovic says his side have prepared well during the week and took advantage of the bye.
“We had a trial match on the weekend, and got a decent hit out with training as well as a few days break to recharge their batteries,” Karlovic said.
“It was a good opportunity for some of the injured players to recover and have a week on the training track where there isn’t a game.
“Now we’re 100 per cent focussed on the game this coming weekend.”
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Adelaide’s gallant victory over the Jets has instilled more belief within the side, and Karlovic insists that if they can match Brisbane’s intensity, they can pass this week’s test successfully.
“Brisbane are a very good side and they’re not on the top of the table by mistake.
“They have some very good individuals in the squad, and work extremely hard as a team and that’s why they are in their current position.
“It will be a challenge and a test for our younger players, but I think we’re up for it and we believe we can get a result.
“For large parts of the match against Newcastle, I thought we were in control and it was a good professional effort.
“They worked really hard and stuck to the structures and got their reward.
“Deflected goals or last minute ones have haunted us this season unfortunately but credit to our players for bouncing back and scoring the second goal.
“I thought we took it to Newcastle and if we are able to bring that intensity and quality against Brisbane, and most importantly limit their chances of scoring, our football can shine through in the end.”
Adelaide United host Brisbane Roar in Round 13 of the Westfield W-League 2017/18 season on Sunday, 28 January at Marden Sports Complex.
FFA, in consultation with all key stakeholders, has taken the decision to delay the kick-off due to the expected high temperatures forecast for Sunday in Adelaide. Kick-off is now 6pm.
