Saturday evening the Young Reds will host Sydney FC in round four of the Foxtel National Youth League.
After tight back-to-back losses the side are looking secure a home victory.
“The boys are going well,” said Valkanis.
“We were able to dominate the game and play our style (against Western Sydney), and we conceded in the last minute which was unfortunate.”
Sydney and Adelaide both sit sixth and seventh on the table equal on points, so a win for the Reds would split them from the bottom of the pack.
And with the team growing week by week learning to play the style that is required, there’s only one real problem that Valkanis has looked to target.
“I think our build up has improved a lot since that force week against Melbourne City when they pressed us high up the pitch.”
“What we’ve shown in the last two games against Melbourne City and Western Sydney is finishing our chances.”
“Even at western Sydney we had our chances, and with all this domination and possession, we have to start converting them.”
And this could be met as striker Anthony Costa could see himself a part of this week’s squad against Sydney.
Already a proven goal scorer, being the league’s highest scorer last season and already netting one this season he could be a big inclusion.
Also after a few weeks playing away up against strong sides who played first team regulars this week the team are prepared for what Sydney will bring tomorrow.
And playing in their home environment could do the young reds well as they push for that needed victory.
Adelaide United Youth Team take on the Sydney FC Youth Team on Saturday evening at the Adelaide Football Shores Sports Complex. Kick-off is 5:00pm. Free entry.
Adelaide United Youth Team squad: Paul Izzo (GK), Mark Ochieng, Dylan Smith, Anthony Costa, Jordan Pudler, Ruon Tongyik, Terry Theodorou, Christopher Skull, Jack Bladen (C), Adam Piscioneri, Thomas Love, Doni Pollock, Samed Altundag, Antoni Trimboli, Niko Apostolopoulos, Alex Woodlands (RGK)
