Adelaide United Head Coach Theo Tsiounis says a return to normality has put his side in a strong position ahead of Sunday’s Ninja A-League clash with Central Coast Mariners at Coopers Stadium, as the Reds look to build on last weekend’s entertaining win.
Tsiounis on returning to routine…
“It’s been good to be home and get back to our usual routine in preparation for the game against Central Coast. Everyone’s in a good place and really looking forward to it.”
Tsiounis on last week’s chaotic win…
“At the end of the day it’s about the three points. I thought in the first half we did quite well in patches and created some really good opportunities. We deserved to go in 3–0 up at halftime. Obviously we’d like to limit the moments where we concede, because we gave them a little sniff back into the game, but those are learning opportunities for everyone.”
Tsiounis on confidence within the group…
“The girls are resilient and in a good place. Coming off a win, spirits are good and the belief has always been there. Central Coast are a good side and they’ve been consistent all year, so it’s a big challenge, but one we’re really looking forward to.”
Tsiounis on squad health…
“Fitness-wise the squad is in a really good space. Dylan’s recovery has been relatively slow, but it’s starting to pick up in the last few days, which has been positive. Hopefully we’ll have a bit more news in the coming days.”
Tsiounis on youth opportunities following Ilona Melegh’s start last game…
“She’s got huge potential and she’s been training really well. We told her that we believe in her and that when the opportunity comes, she needs to take it. I thought she did exceptionally well in her first game this year, and hopefully she continues to build from that.”
Tsiounis on team culture and togetherness…
“We laid a strong foundation in pre-season and that’s something we continue to work on. You go through the good times and the tough times together as a collective, and that only makes the group stronger in the long term.”
Tsiounis on Central Coast Mariners…
“They’re a hard-working, organised and disciplined team with some good individual players who can change a game. We’re not underestimating anyone and we’re expecting a tough contest, but we’re ready to bring plenty of energy.”
Tsiounis on goals for 2026…
“There are a lot of positive signs in how we’re playing, both in and out of possession. The outcomes will follow if we stay focused on the details and our processes. That’s the key for us moving forward.”