Iacopo La Rocca has called for Adelaide United to finish the season in the best possible way when they face Melbourne City on Friday night – securing a valuable three points that could see the Reds become Premiers.
Although United won’t know directly after their clash with City whether they’ll be Premiers at the conclusion of Round 27, a win will give Adelaide the best possible chance of clinching the plate.
Should the Reds beat City, they’ll remain reliant on Brisbane Roar dropping points away to Melbourne Victory.
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“Everyone knows this is a big game and we need to be focused on getting the three points so we can finish off this season in a good way,” La Rocca said.
“We are approaching this game like normal and we will go into it confidently.
“It is like a Grand Final for us, but we will stick together as a team and play hard for one another.
“If we were to finish in the top two, or maybe even become the Premiers, it would mean a lot to everyone because of how we started (the season).
“We have been playing very good football. Either way, we are proud of what we are doing, but we have to keep going.
The versatile Italian defender acknowledged City’s plethora of attacking talent but believes the Reds’ defensive resilience can keep the likes of Aaron Mooy and Bruno Fornaroli at bay.
“We’re expecting a tough game from a team with good players, but we know if we play at our best, we can win this match,” he continued.
“We’re the best defensive side in the competition (conceding the fewest goals) and there is a lot of confidence in our team at the moment.
“For defenders, it’s a difficult position to be in (when games are so important). If you make one mistake, the opposition can score and it can mean a lot more than in normal games.
“But one mistake against a team like Melbourne City can be even more (costly) because of how strong they are.
