Paul Izzo admits Adelaide United’s poor form has left morale low amongst the playing group but backed the Reds’ mentality to get them out of their hole.
The Reds were looking sure things for a Hyundai A-League Finals Series berth a month ago as they sat comfortably in the top four.
But a run of four defeats in their last five games – including three in a row – has seem them drop out of the top six on goal difference.
Last Sunday’s 5-1 capitulation at home against Western United FC has been the low point for Gertjan Verbeek’s side, with Izzo conceding confidence has taken a hit.
“The mood has been very down, obviously extremely disappointed with how things have gone the past three or four weeks,” the Reds goalkeeper explained.
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“It’s been nothing short of, honestly embarrassing I guess, particularly being a local boy it does sting that bit more getting results like that.
“Representing the town that you were brought up in and raised, it does sting a lot, but we’ve got a really good group we’ve been through similar moments this season I guess.
“We’ve always come through, so we’re looking to replicate that and push through and get things a bit more positive.”
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Adelaide’s first chance to turn their fortunes around comes on Sunday as they host a resurgent Newcastle Jets at Coopers Stadium (kick-off 6.20pm AEDT).
It’s the start of what looms as a season-defining period for the Reds.
Following a bye in Round 24, they take on the Hyundai A-League’s current top four in the next four matches.
It starts with away trips to Melbourne City and Wellington Phoenix before back-to-back home games against Sydney FC and Perth Glory.
“It always starts with the mentality. It’s all got to be a collective effort from every player in the squad,” Izzo said.
“It’s not the people that are even starting as well, it’s got to be the young boys and the players out of the squad pushing everyone.
“That’s how you build a strong competitiveness and that’s where you get the good mentality from.”
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Adelaide United v Newcastle Jets
Sunday, 15 March
Coopers Stadium
Kick-off: 5.50pm local, 6.20pm AEDT
