Adelaide United are making an impression on new technical director Ernest Faber early in pre-season, with the Dutchman hailing the team’s mindset and the potential of the club’s famed academy.
Carl Veart’s Reds continued their preparations for the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League season and an Australia Cup last-16 tie against Olympic Kingsway with a big win over NPLM SA opposition West Adelaide on Wednesday night.
Austin Ayoubi scored four goals in a comprehensive victory midweek, while triallist and former Le Havre forward Godwin Bentil bagged a brace for the Reds, who debuted their new kit.
INTERVIEW WITH AN ICON: Inside Italy great’s coaching ‘university’ where Aussie kids are treated ‘like Serie A players’
Bentil is one of two Ghanaian triallists at Adelaide, alongside Alhassan Benny. The pair have been invited by Faber from Attram De Visser Soccer Academy in Ghana. Former Melbourne Victory defender Matthew Bozinovski is also trialling.
Jonny Yull and Josh Cavallo were also on target for Adelaide.
AUSTRALIA CUP R16 DRAW: Australia Cup Round of 16 draw: Path to final clearer for six A-Leagues sides
“I’ve been impressed with our transitions and intensity throughout the games so far,” Adelaide’s technical director Ernest Faber said via the club’s media.
“The players’ skills and their 100% mindset is remarkable, and they always meet the demands placed on them. Their discipline is outstanding.
“This isn’t a surprise to me, but it gives me great confidence for the future. I see a lot of potential in our academy as well, so overall, it’s very positive.”
Cavallo’s goal capped a long-awaited return for the Reds midfielder.
The 24-year-old returned from an Achilles injury in January however he was limited to just 93 minutes of A-Leagues action last due due to fitness issues.
WHAT WE LEARNED: All-time record broken as 17yo bursts onto the scene in stunning debut
“It’s incredible and a credit to the coaching staff and rehab,” Cavallo told club media post-game.
“It’s been a long road and I thank them for sticking by me in this time – in the ups and downs. To get me back on that field tonight was just magic for me.”
Cavallo added: “Football is lots of ups and down but it was a moment (the goal) for me that made it all worth it.
“It hasn’t been an easy road for myself and to be back in the first game and to score a goal like that was a nice feeling. But it’s only the start for me… gotta be ready for Round 1.”
Featured image: Adelaide United
