Friday, March 29, 2024

Sydney, Del Piero look to improve

SoccerNews in General Soccer News 7 Oct 2012

60 Views

Sydney coach Ian Crook conceded Wellington Phoenix deserved their 2-0 A-League win on Saturday.

The Sky Blues were outplayed by the New Zealand side and even marquee signing Alessandro Del Piero could not produce the magic needed to get a win on his debut.

“We turned the ball over a bit too much,” Crook said.

“The positives for me were that we continued to try and play. We’ve set the boys some targets we’re looking to achieve in terms of the way we play.

“It’s disappointing but full credit to (Wellington) they deserved to win the game.”

Sydney have been hamstrung by a lack of competitive fixtures in the build-up to the season opener.

Del Piero had just one interclub game with the squad before Saturday’s match at Westpac Stadium and at times it showed.

“It’s the first time we’ve had this group on the pitch playing in a meaningful game,” Crook said. “So one thing I’ll give the boys credit for is they continued to try and play.”

The Sydney coach was happy with Del Piero’s contribution.

The 37-year-old lasted the full 90 minutes and showed glimpses of what he is capable with his footwork and skill.

“I didn’t think he was too bad,” Crook said. “I think he showed at times some fabulous quality for someone who got off the flight two weeks ago.

“At times I thought some of the stuff was fantastic. But we were expecting that anyway because he is who he is and what he is, which is a top-class pro.”

Del Piero said he felt ‘OK’ after lasting the full match.

“I played 90 minutes but I need to do better,” he said.

“I need to improve physically and (playing) with the team and I have to do it soon.

“I’m not satisfied because we lost. But it’s the first match. We need to improve. We need to play together a few times because I’ve only been here a few weeks and we’ve played just one game together. Tonight Wellington played very well.”

Sydney also have some concerns about Terry Antonis, who left the field in the second half suffering from symptoms of concussion and was taken to hospital for checks.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

Live Scores

advertisement

Betting Guide Advertisement

advertisement

Become a Writer
More More
Top