Auckland FC could be without some of their top players for the “do or die” Elimination Final against Melbourne City, while defensive issues are highlighted again.
Coach Steve Corica said the club’s top scorer Sam Cosgrove is a doubt to start this weekend after he suffered an ankle injuryagainst Sydney FC.
“He’s actually done his ankle, he’s ruptured ligaments in his ankle,” Corica said.
“You can see him out here today training lightly, he’ll try and train tomorrow and then we’ll make a decision whether he starts or maybe comes off the bench.
“[It’s] obviously something we have to see with him where his head’s at and if he can last 90 minutes.”
Corica said the striker wants to be available at some point during the game, but a decision will be taken later as to whether he makes the starting 11.
Sam Cosgrove and Jesse Randall face a race against time to be fit for Auckland FC's Elimination Final. Photo / Photosport
“Jesse’s got a tight groin, so he’s pulled up slowly after the last game in Sydney and still a little bit sore, so we’ll just see how he goes tomorrow as well,” Corica said.
Felipe Gallegos is expected to be out for four weeks with a hamstring injury, but told Corica he expects to be back earlier than that, but defender Nando Pijnaker and midfielder Jake Brimmer are back training with the squad.
Meanwhile, Auckland FC’s coach emphasised the importance of the upcoming match against Melbourne City.
Sam Cosgrove suffered an ankle injury against Sydney FC, making him a doubt to start Auckland FC's Elimination Final. Photo / Photosport.
“It’s definitely a pressure game because it’s a one off game, so like I said, it’s a do or die at the moment.”
Corica focused on defensive issues which have contributed to a poor run of results for the team who haven’t won since mid-March.
“We’ve been giving away some really cheap goals I think, individual errors or transition moments.
“We pride ourselves on our defence and I think we’re probably the second best defensive team in the league, but you’ve got to keep clean sheets, you can’t really make mistakes in finals games like this, you can get punished.”
He emphasised the importance of taking chances in finals games as well, with all focus now pointed toward Saturday afternoon at Go Media Stadium.
