Interim Wellington Phoenix coach Chris Greenacre expects Adelaide United to go deep into the Finals Series after getting a close-up look at Marco Kurz’s men.
An outclassed Phoenix lost 3-1 at Coopers Stadium on Friday night as the Reds made it two from two at home.
The result left Wellington rooted to the bottom of the ladder, although Greenacre was not downcast in defeat.
“I don’t want to take anything away from Adelaide. I thought they were terrific,” he told Fox Sports.
“Very well organised and they were quite difficult to break down. They get huge numbers behind the ball and we found it difficult.
Key stats as Adelaide United add to Wellington Phoenix woes
“The gameplan was to keep it out of the zones and we didn’t at times. And I think they took the goals very, very well.
“They’re where they are for a reason and I expect them to upset one or two teams if they are to get in the play-offs.”
One positive for Phoenix was Logan Rogerson’s 30-minute cameo off the bench.
The 19-year-old won and converted his own penalty late in proceedings, making it two in two following his goal against Brisbane Roar last round.
“I thought he was terrific when he came on and caused Adelaide some problems,” Greenacre said of Rogerson.
“I think [the penalty] bounced a couple of times before it went under the keeper but fair play to him. He stuck his hand up and he took his opportunity.”
