Adelaide United skipper Eugene Galekovic and playmaker Marcelo Carrusca spoke to the media this afternoon ahead of Friday’s Elimination Final against Brisbane Roar at Adelaide Oval.
Galekovic:
On poor record at against Roar, having lost the last six
“They’ve been good when they have come down and we’ve got that record over there where we’ve beaten them a few times.
“I’m not sure why, it just happens. You win or lose a few in a row and that’s what’s happened with us and Brisbane. We’re looking too change that come Friday night and hopefully it does.
“We’re in a situation where four other teams are already on their off-season and we’re still training. It’s a good thing and we want to be there in two three weeks’ time in the finals.”
On their injury and suspension troubles
“[Michael] Marrone and Bruce [Djite] are going to be big losses for us but we’ve got three boys that are fresh that didn’t play on the weekend and are ready to go.
“It’s going to be a bit of a change but the boys that are coming in have played most of the season. It’s good for them to have that rest and come in fresh.
“There’s going to be a lot of changes. We don’t know who yet, we’ve still get two more training sessions before the game. It’s a bit of a headache for the coach.
“But whoever comes in will do a job and we’re confident in the squad we’ve got.”
On Westfield FFA Cup experience to help in the finals
“It might. It is one of those competitions now where you lose and you’re out.
“We have to leave everything behind, we can’t save ourselves for the following week, we have to treat every game like it is a grand final.
“We need to win three in a row and we’ll be champions. It’s easier said than done but it starts on Friday night.”
Finals Series feature star: Pablo Sanchez
On changing their style now playing at Adelaide Oval
“Look, it’s a final. You cop a goal you can lose the game.
“We’re coming here to put pressure on them. It’s our home ground, our supporters and we’re looking to start well and finish well….there’s no excuses.”
Carrusca:
On his fitness
“I’m fine, we’ll see what Josep [coach Josep Gombau} says but I’m ready [to start].
“I did some physical stuff [over the weekend]. Now I trained with the group today and more with the ball.
“I was probably ready last week but this game is more important so me and the coach decide I don’t play. The final is the most important for us.”
On how tough it’s been missing the last month through injury
“I don’t enjoy it when you can’t play and have to watch the game from the stands, it’s difficult.
“But I’ve had this injury and I have to be fit to play and this is the time.”
On the chances of Djite and Isaias playing
“I’m not a doctor but Brucey I think has something in his groin, I’m not sure if he’s going to be alright.
“Isaias has something with his ankle but I think he will be fine.”
On how to beat Brisbane Roar
“They are a very good team and have very good players.
“The best player in the league for me is [Thomas] Broich.
“We have to do well, keep more of the ball than them and try to score. This is most important.”
On memories of their finals loss to Roar in 2013
“This is another season, another game and we’re play here in this stadium which isn’t normal for us.
“We will try to win and play well for the fans that come here to see us. It’s weird to play here [Adelaide Oval] but it’s amazing. You come here and see how big it is.”
