United show character in come from behind win
GOLD Coast United coach Kristian Rees has praised his team’s character after coming from behind to beat Brisbane City in Round 4 of the NPL on Saturday night.
Gold Coast trailed 1-0 at halftime but levelled through a Cian Cuba free kick in the 60th minute before Conor Smith sealed the three points with 15 minutes left at Coplick Family Sports Park.
“It was a very good win,” Rees said. The boys have shown excellent character to be able to go one-nil down then come back to get the result.
“It was very tough conditions. They have fought hard and they have done what we have spoken about which is really work hard together as a team when things are tough.
“We have two wins in a row now so I spoke to them about really trying to create some momentum there. They are doing everything right.”
The game marked the return of Justyn McKay from a groin injury, with Rees labelling him the best midfielder on the Gold Coast.
“He has been out for a long time and he was one of my first signings,” Rees said.
“For me he is probably the best midfielder on the Gold Coast with his experience and what he has done in recent history with his football.
“We were able to get him back on the pitch for a good half-an-hour and he showed that experience by setting up the second goal for Conor Smith.
“His actions speak louder than his words, he is quiet but goes about his job really well and the boys really look up to him.”
United will travel to Brisbane to play the Brisbane
Strikers at Perry Park this week.
The club’s women made it two wins from two in the NPLW last night with a 2-1 triumph over Brisbane Roar at Coplicks.