A jubilant Gold Coast United coach Miron Bleiberg said his side was not a two-man team after defeating Sydney FC 1-0 at the SFS on Sunday.
Much has been made of the importance of United’s marquee signing Jason Culina and 19-goal striker Shane Smeltz.
But after Joel Porter’s first half goal helped his side to three vital points and top spot on the Hyundai A-League ladder, Bleiberg was keen to highlight the contribution of other Gold Coast stars.
“Are we a two-man team? I don’t think so. We have two outstanding players in Jason (Culina) and (Shane) Smeltz. But I think we proved today even with Dino Djulblic just came for the last ten days and was also outstanding. And Joel scored today.”
Bleiberg added that the first half – a 45 minutes dominated by Gold Coast who took a 1-0 lead into the break – was a ‘brilliant’ performance;.
United captain Jason Culina was equally upbeat with the business end of the Hyundai A-League season approaching. “There aren’t many games to go and I know what it’s like to win a championship. So I’m hungry more than anybody to win a championship.
“But we’re not even talking about that yet. We’ve got four difficult games to go. But we’re starting to get excited and play some good football.”
Bleiberg conceded the tough schedule of three games in seven days took its toll in the second half, but he was still satisfied.
“I wouldn’t exaggerate but it was a good performance. I think it was structurally we stood well and Sydney, without taking anything away from them – they’re a good side and well coached and played without Alex Brosque – but Sydney didn’t penetrate us.”
“And I don’t think Jess (‘keeper Van Strattan) have anything more than ordinary to do.”
The colourful Bleiberg added that he was not happy with all aspects of his team’s performance. He added they could be more ruthless.
“I tell you now, before I tell the players. The subject of this week’s training will be fast-break.”
