Expectation is mounting on Adelaide United with the Reds needing to beat Central Coast by at least two goals to win the premiership plate at Bluetongue Stadium on Sunday.
But United coach Aurelio Vidmar is trying to defuse the pressure by down-playing the importance of winning silverware this season.
Vidmar said his players had been pushed to the limit in a busy year.
“If it happens, it happens. It’s been tough, really tough … you don’t understand how difficult it has been to play on three fronts (A-League, ACL, Club World Cup),” he said.
“The effort they have put in from day one is nothing short of a miracle.”
Vidmar also said the team wouldn’t change its game too much, regardless of the results earlier in the weekend.
“Our plan is the same every week, we go out there and try to win, we create chances some days they go in, some days they don’t, that’s the way it is,” he said.
Melbourne Victory’s win over Wellington Phoenix on Friday has turned the heat up on the Reds but also relieved the pressure on the Mariners who are now guaranteed fourth spot.
The South Australian team is hopeful Central Coast will rest some of experienced players now its fate has been set.
Adelaide will need all the help they can get considering its poor record against the Central Coast this year.
They surrendered a 3-0 lead to draw in the first encounter before losing 3-0 the last time they played in Gosford.
They are also without the suspended Sasa Ognenovski while Alemao is struggling with a groin problem.
Defender Robbie Cornthwaite, who has a hip injury, has had a quiet week on the training track but is a chance to play.
“We’re pretty confident he’ll be able to play on Sunday … a few precautionary measures over the last couple of days but should be fine to start,” Vidmar said.
Kristian Sarkies and Lucas Pantelis are expected to play.
Vidmar said the entire squad were primed for the big encounter.
“Everyone knows the scenario and what it means to each and every individual and for the club, it’s a big day a big game and hopefully we can get over the line and become premiers,” Vidmar said.
