Questionable tactics cost Adelaide any chance of winning
While it should be noted that the Victory were phenomenal in the first-half, courtesy of their high-pressing and refusal to give Adelaide time and space on the ball, the tactics employed by Amor certainly raised a few eyebrows. Injuries to strikers Bruce Djite and Pablo Sanchez, combined with Dylan McGowan’s suspension meant the Reds were slightly depleted, however, some of the personnel selected by the coach was unexpected to say the least. Sergio Cirio, who is a greater threat in wide areas, was inexplicably utilised in a ‘false No.9’ role, which ultimately backfired.
Perhaps starting natural forward Eli Babalj would have been beneficial in providing an outlet to goal and some respite, during the Victory’s relentless first 45 minutes, highlighted by a recorded nine corners to one. A tactical switch to a 3-4-3 formation enabled the Reds to dictate proceedings in large parts during the second-half, but it was a case of too little too late.
Yes Babalj was essentially non-existent when he came on, but had he started it might have impacted the complexion of the clash. Instead, Adeladie will have to start its preparations for the fascinating initial 2015-16 A-League match with Melbourne in just over a fortnight’s time.
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