A relieved Vitezslav Lavicka has called Sydney FC’s last-gasp win over Gold Coast United an important moment as the two-time champions seek to revitalise their stuttering campaign.
A relieved Vitezslav Lavicka has called Sydney FC’s last-gasp win over Gold Coast United an important moment as the two-time champions seek to revitalise their stuttering campaign.
The Sky Blues coach finally saw his touch turn to gold as substitute Bruno Cazarine popped up with an 89th minute winner to secure a 2-1 comeback win against the Hyundai A-League’s bottom side.
The result ends a six-match winless run for Sydney who incredibly had secured just one win at the Sydney Football Stadium this campaign; that also being a come-from-behind victory against Gold Coast.
Although the home side had the better of proceedings, it was Gold Coast that took the lead with a smart finish from youngster Ben Halloran ten minutes after the interval.
Karol Kisel replied for Sydney midway through the half with the Slovakian then setting up the winner with a deft dribble and cross.
“I think we deserved to win,” said Lavicka.
“The boys showed good character and worked very hard.”
“In the first half we created a couple of good opportunities to score. Our opponents played very well and they scored with a quick counter.”
“I have to say this is a breakthrough for everyone – for the players, for the staff, for the Sydney FC fans and members and the entire club.”
“It was only a small step forward tonight but for the confidence it is very important.”
The win also provides a timely boost for the Sky Blues ahead of their Australia Day visit to Melbourne where arch-rivals Victory await.
Lavicka made just one change to his starting line-up omitting Sebastian Ryall to make room for the return of Pascal Bosschaart from suspension.
Brett Emerton passed a match-day fitness test to take his place after aggravating an ankle injury against Perth Glory last Wednesday and Lavicka confirmed the Socceroo came through the match unscathed.
Equally relieved to return to the winners circle was Sydney skipper Terry McFlynn who felt the win was coming.
“The performances in the last two games have been similar although this time we have got the win,” said McFlynn.
“We have always had a belief and togetherness in the squad that we can go and win games.”
“Sometimes you need a bit of luck to go your way and tonight I think we created enough chances to win the game. We deserved to win.”
“Hopefully this is the catalyst that will give us the confidence to kick on for the rest of the season.”
“Every game is like a cup final for us now. We have to approach every game with that mentality and I think we saw that tonight.”
