Adelaide United captain Ryan Kitto has called on his teammates to rally together as the struggling Reds aim to secure their place in the Isuzu UTE A-League Finals Series amid increasing “outside noise”.
Carl Veart’s side is currently holding onto their position in the top six, with a six-match winless streak leaving them just three points ahead of seventh-placed Sydney FC as they prepare for a massive showdown at Coopers Stadium on Saturday night.
Pressure is mounting on the Reds, who began the season unbeaten in their first eight fixtures. Rumours regarding Veart’s future as head coach after the 2024-25 season have also emerged, according to Network 10.
“There’s a bit of outside noise and a few distractions at the moment, but our main focus is on the training pitch and the matches that lie ahead,” Kitto shared with Adelaide media.
“We’ve held meetings as a group and established our goals. We know where we want to be and what we aim to achieve, and everyone is pushing towards that target. We have a clear vision, but now it’s down to the toughest part — actually achieving it.
“Training has been very positive, with everyone putting in a solid effort. We just need to translate that energy to match day, secure a positive result, and reinforce those habits to finish — as I’ve said — in the position we believe we deserve to be.”
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Last week, Adelaide was leading 3-2 after coming back from a 2-1 deficit but ultimately lost 5-3 to Melbourne Victory, who surged late with goals in the 88th and 90th minutes at AAMI Park.
“It was disappointing not to secure a result for our amazing travelling supporters on Saturday,” Kitto lamented. “They’ve been incredible for us all season, just as they have throughout my time here at Adelaide.
“As I’ve always said, we have the best fans in the league, and we are truly fortunate.
“It’s crucial that we honour their loyalty, and that they keep coming out to support us — it genuinely makes a difference, and it will be vital for this final push.”
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