The Reds finally break their hoodoo
Words by Bevan Jones
On a humid evening in Adelaide, the reigning champions, Adelaide United, have registered their first win of the year with a 2-0 win against Wellington Phoenix in front of a reasonable crowd of 8539 people.
In a spiteful first half which threatened to boil over, Adelaide United got off to a brilliant start with a 2-0 lead over the Phoenix. Both goals were scored by former Brisbane Roar striker, Henrique and they were both long range goals for the highlight reel.
Wellington had their chances though and will rue a golden opportunity to take a 1-0 lead when Roy Krishna missed a penalty that was brilliantly saved by Adelaide skipper and veteran keeper Eugene Galekovic. The penalty was a dubious one though when Dylan McGowan fouled Adam Parkhouse in what should’ve just been a free kick.
Wellington coach Ernie Merrick felt as though the missed penalty was the turning point of the game and that it sparked the home side.
“I felt as though missing the penalty lifted Adelaide and we seemed to defend well but we didn’t create enough scoring opportunities,” Merrick said.
Acting Adelaide United coach Pau Marti was delighted by the win that now moves the Reds up to 8th on the ladder.
“It was a good win for the club and let’s enjoy tonight and look forward to next week,” Marti said.
The second half was an even tussle with both teams creating scoring opportunities.
Young gun Marc Marino injected into the game for Ryan Gitto, missed a golden opportunity to put the Reds up 3 nil but Wellington keeper Glen Moss made a brilliant save and kept the Reds at bay.
Gitto had a goal disallowed at the 78 minute mark as he was ruled offside but the Reds held on for a gutsy 2-0 win and put their back to back chances back on track. Adelaide now go to 8th on the ladder.
Best players
Henrique
Galekovic
Carrusca
Garrucio
Goals
Henrique 26 & 39 minute
No Comments