Tara Murray
Western United’s winning streak is now at four after beating Adelaide United on Friday night in the A-League men’s competition.
After a week that included three players testing positive for COVID-19 and doubts over whether the game would go ahead, Western United managed to get the points in the 1-0 win.
A goal to Connor Pain just before halftime, his second in as many games, was enough to get the win.
Western United coach John Aloisi said the team continues to show heart.
“The week we had to deal with and what we had to deal with, that just shows the spirit of the team, the club,” he said.
“We followed all the right protocols. We knew this could happen… And you’re not sure if you’re going to play the game or not play the game
“The club worked tirelessly in the background. The players remained focused and showed their character, we had to fight at this moment of time.
“I can’t be more pleased with the club and playing group, that’s four wins in a row. The club has never achieved that.”
With players in isolation, Aloisi had to throw the magnets around. Nikolai Topor-Stanley had to play at left back, a role he hasn’t played for a number of years.
Having played both games the previous week after limited minutes early in the season, Topor-Stanley ran out of legs in the second half.
Leo Lacroix, who returned from injury after not training much recently, was another who struggled to run out the game.
“It showed the character of the players, we did have to adjust to what happens, it will probably happen all season.”
Aloisi admits they aren’t playing the soccer they would like to be, but were showing great qualities in defence.
He said they will continue to get better and the return of several key players will also help.
“We know that we can play better,” he said.
“The way we are assessing it, [is that] we are making it hard for the opposition a lot of time, making sure they find it hard to create changes and find spaces.
“You have to think about how many players we don’t have, but we’re not looking at any excuses.
“The hardest thing about football is gelling with the ball and that will take time.”
Aloisi said that Connor Wain and Lachie Wales continue to cause problems up front for opposition sides.
Western United sits second on the ladder. Western United’s next match is on Boxing Day against Melbourne Victory.
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