Bit more time to reflect after that one, and from my end it was actually quite a good even game on the balance of things.
Perth didn't really fire a shot in that first half until that ball was cleared off the line late, but in saying that, we could have been 2-0 ahead if it weren't for a bit of a shanked shot hitting the woodwork. Fine margins.
Perth were by far and away the better team from after H/T up until about that 70 minute mark and fully deserved their equaliser. Proper Stajcic tactics at play there to drag them back into it, they looked fair value for the three points at that point as well.
Old 🔛 Rufer was the winner on the day. His interception to turn over in the lead up to the goal was much needed, but he provided a good bit of impetus/quality off the bench to help us get the W. I've said it earlier in pre season that players like him - in the absence of experience and star quality will really need to put their best foot forward this season. I know he's coming back from injury and we're working him into the season, but that's hopefully a promising sign for us. 🤞
As for all the other young Kiwi cohort, well, I'm pleasantly surprised to say the least. I think the kids are going to do well and prove a few people wrong this season.
Paulsen - Get him on a long term deal right this minute!
Surman - Solid, if unspectacular, but that's exactly what I want in a CB.
Kelly-Heald - Really, really good, especially in the first half, could have blotted it had that penalty gone in, but hopefully that's what we'll call a teachable moment.
Old - Gave us the impetus to go and get that winning goal. More of the same please this season good sir!
Finally congrats to Gillion & Hughes for their A-League debuts. A huge moment in any young footballers career, and to top it off with a win will definitely feel good this evening.
Still lots to work on lads, but some equally good signs. How good to have a positive start results wise to the season too!