Gold Coast United is already shaping as the complete Hyundai A-League package with its 2-0 victory over Adelaide United highlighting its ability to both attack and defend.
The new franchise grabbed the competition’s attention by scoring eight goals in its first two victories but impressed in all aspects of the game at Hindmarsh Stadium on Friday.
After scoring goals in the 12th and 50th minute, the Coast spent much of the second half defending against a desperate Reds outfit.
The home side had several shots on goals but couldn’t break down the visitors’ defence.
Coach Miron Bleiberg was pleased with the all-round performance of his players.
“Adelaide is a good team, so far the toughest opposition that we have, but we are not only a good team to go forward but we are also a good team to defend and the fact that we’ve conceded one goal from a penalty in the three rounds speaks for itself,” Bleiberg said.
“It’s not only about the brilliant part of the game, it’s also about the hard work and the commitment and that’s what you saw today from our team.”
“It (Hindmarsh Stadium) is usually an intimidating place, I’ve been here many times, usually leave empty-handed.”
Captain Jason Culina said the team’s best could still be yet to come.
“We knew it was going to be tough, we knew they were going to come out at us and we were able to combat that,” he said.
“We’ve just got to keep a level head, nobody is thinking too far into the future.”
“Tonight was probably a glimpse of our best football, last week we played really well and scored more goals and perhaps there’s more improvement.”
“We’ll just keep working hard and the good form and the rhythm will come and hopefully as the season goes on you see some even better football being played.”
Meanwhile Culina is optimistic his involvement in the Hyundai A-League will encourage other Qantas Socceroos to join the Australian competition.
“The A-League is definitely more professional now, the crowds have improved and everything is run so much better,” he said.
“In the future, hopefully after the World Cup, you’ll see some more Socceroos coming back because it is a high level, a lot of people don’t realise that, it’s not easy.”
“It’d be a huge boost for Australia and the A-League if more did come back.”