In the latest of our series of columns from the Hyundai A-League Finals Series club captains, Adelaide United skipper Isaias looks forward in his own words to this weekend's Semi Final against Perth Glory.
Read on as the midfield dynamo lifts the lid on the atmosphere inside Marco Kurz's squad after their Elimination Final heroics and explains why the Reds are feeling free and ready to fire on Friday.
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Dedication and determination
"Just one more game and we are in the Grand Final…
"Last week’s result against Melbourne City was incredible – what a win. As a team, we always knew we were capable of winning that game, but to do it the way we did was amazing.
"It would have been much easier to win in regular time, but to advance to the Semi-Finals after 120 minutes of football shows how much desire we have as a group.
"Nothing was going to stop us in that game – not cramp or tiredness – and I have the same feeling now as we prepare for Perth Glory."
"No excuses for Semi Final
"As I said last week, if you want to be crowned Champions, you must beat any team that stands in your way of achieving that goal.
"Perth is the next on our list and our only focus is on the things we can do as a group to break them down and be the ones in the Grand Final.
"We have played Perth a few times so far this season – we even played them all the way back in the pre-season. Every game against them is difficult and we know we will need to be at our very best this week as well.
"But we feel no pressure. Maybe this is because we’re not expected to win. Perth have been the best team all season, which is why they won the Premiers Plate.
"They had the week off last week and we played for 120 minutes on Sunday and have to turn it around again to play on Friday night away from home.
"Maybe some people are making excuses for us before the game has even been played… but not us. We will never give excuses."
Stronger together
"Our group is so mentally strong that when and where we play this game makes no difference.
"The moment the whistle is blown on Friday, every player wearing the Adelaide United crest over their heart will be giving 110 per cent for the club and our fans.
"We want this more than ever and we will do whatever it takes to get the opportunity to be in another Grand Final.
"This is our time and the time is ours. Come on you reds!"
