Depleted and written off before the match by many throughout the week, City’s ticker, resolve and desire to work back from a two-goal deficit on Saturday night was what Head Coach Michael Valkanis believes his side is all about.
Two Jamie Maclaren goals in the first half had Brisbane in cruise control at AAMI Park after two contentious decisions opened the door for the Roar to lead at the break.
Valkanis’ side showed true grit and determination in the second half to work their way back into the contest and with momentum on their side, the Head Coach felt City were unlucky not to walk away with the three points.
Despite the point, Valkanis was proud of his side efforts which included a debut to 16-year-old Dylan Pierias, a starting debut to 17-year-old Denis Genreau and a bench with the average age of 19.
“Youth is very important,” Valkanis said.
“Youth is a very big part of our club and the work we do. The work the coaches do with the boys has been amazing. I think we won a Grand Final playing beautiful football and it should’ve been 4-0 at half time in the NYL Final.
“That’s where we are as a club. The whole club is playing one style. Yes, we want to win everything there is to win and we will give everything for it.
“Denis Genreau has been given the opportunity before and he’s come on and played and we believe a lot in him and his ability as a midfielder.
“With Dylan Pierias, it was either you’re going to put players out of position or keep a consistency with the formation and put in a 16-year-old who we believe is going to be one of the future players for the Club.
It was a no-brainier earlier in the week to stick him in and he did an exceptional job at training. He picked up everything we spoke to him about and id everything perfect. I think he had a very good performance for a young boy.
“They’re a pretty humble bunch of boys and they’re probably a little bit disappointed they didn’t get the three points.”
It wasn’t only the youngster that pulled through for City on Saturday night but its oldest player, Thomas Sorensen, had showed no signs of slowing down, making a number of crucial stops to keep his side in the game.
“I spoke to you guys about Tommy in the press conference earlier in the week because he’s been an example for all,” he said.
“He’s defined what our culture is about, how he’s gone about his business in the time he’s been out of the team, how he’s stepped up today to lead a younger team. He had a very good game today.
With the former Danish International the first on Valkanis’ team sheet for next week’s clash with Wellington, the Head Coach has left the door open for player selection with at least six players now eligible to make their return for the contest in New Zealand.
“We hit training Monday morning and everyon’s on a level playing field and we take it from there,” he said.
“We look at our next opponent, we look at what we need to do, who’s available and take it from there.
“First of all, we have to go back and watch the game two or three times like we always do and analyse everthing inside out. I’m sure there are things we need to improve and work on.”
