Tony Popovic’s side returned to winning ways with a 1-0 win against Macarthur FC on Sunday night, as preparations ramp up ahead of next week’s Melbourne Derby. This is what Victory’s Head Coach had to say following Sunday’s win.
Returning from the break…
“We knew it would be a tough game, tough conditions.”
“Four weeks we haven’t played, that’s for both teams, I thought we did a very good job containing them.”
“There’s a lot more growth to come, we know we have to improve further, it’s a good way to start this new period.”
On the opportunities Victory had in front of goal…
“We had a lot of good opportunities, that unfortunately we didn’t take, but in the end, we took the vital one.”
“We’ve probably grown a little bit over this period of four weeks out. Maybe we didn’t become anxious or nervous because we were missing the opportunities.”
“We looked more in control today, it was a fantastic goal that we scored.”
On Jason Geria’s return and the young players standing up…
“A lot of young boys came on and contributed.”
“Jason Geria, his last match was May, hasn’t even played a pre-season game, no games whatsoever and he plays 75 minutes – just outstanding.”
“Ben Folami’s a young player, Nishan Velupillay’s a young player, Bozinovski’s debut for the club, young Will Wilson – these boys are away from home in tough conditions, had to play a big part.”
On Folami’s penalty shout…
“At the time you think it’s a clear penalty, from where I’m standing, from behind you think that would be given.”
“I was surprised it wasn’t, but the VAR checked it, they also said it wasn’t.”
“I still sit here surprised, but we have to respect the decision.”
On how Brimmer and the team pulled up…
“Jakey was cramping up at the end, you know, it’s been a long time since we played, (he did) so much work out there.”
“You know, we don’t believe there’s anything serious that will keep someone out next week.”
On the travelling support and next week’s Derby…
“It’s a special game. (today) We had a big turnout from our fans, coming here, in these conditions, travelling to support us.”
“We’ve got a big derby to look forward to, we know we’ll be ready to play out part – and I’m sure our fans will play a part as well.”
