There’s a quiet confidence building at United – and according to Bart Vriends, it’s arriving at exactly the right time.
After an emotional late win over Sydney FC on Saturday, the Dutch defender believes the Reds are finding their rhythm as the season enters its decisive stretch – just as Coopers Stadium prepares for one of its most special nights of the year.
“Extremely proud,” Vriends said of the Sydney result.
“It wasn’t an easy game. Sydney is a big club with a strong squad, but we stood our ground and fought until the end. We were able to change the game completely.”
The win lifted United into the top three – and more importantly, reinforced belief inside the squad.
“We are just up there with the best teams so far,” he said.
“And it’s not just the results – it’s the way we play, the way we are organised. We are full of confidence now.”
Last season, this stage of the campaign proved challenging. This year feels different.
“I feel – and I hope – that we are slowly growing into our best form,” Vriends explained.
“And that’s a very convenient time to get there.”
Even with key players sidelined, the squad has found resilience.
“The boys that need to come on do a terrific job strengthening the team. It feels solid. We’re still improving week by week.”
For Vriends, the shift has been in the details.
“It comes down to details. We spend a lot of time talking about that – not the bigger picture, but the small things that help us win games. And that is already starting to make a difference.”
There’s no shortage of ambition inside the dressing room.
“If you follow us this season, we are quite dominant,” Vriends said.
“If we can get more consistency in our games, I think we are one of the strongest sides in the league.”
That belief will be crucial this weekend – not just because of ladder positions, but because of the occasion.
Saturday night isn’t just another fixture. It’s the annual Teddy Bear Toss in support of AnglicareSA, a night where thousands of soft toys rain down onto the Coopers Stadium pitch to support South Australian families doing it tough.
For Vriends – who has embraced life in Adelaide both on and off the pitch – it’s another reminder of what makes this club special.
“I feel very at home and at ease here,” he said.
“Australia is really good at welcoming people. I walk around with a smile on my face – on the pitch, but also off the pitch.”
And on a night when football meets community impact, the Reds will be hoping to deliver both goals and joy.
With form building, belief growing, and Coopers Stadium set to come alive – the timing feels just right.