United lock in coach pairing
GOLD Coast United have given themselves a boost ahead of tonight's NPL game, retaining the coaching services of former A-League duo Kristian Rees and Matt Osman.
The seventh-placed side host Western Pride at Briggs Road (7pm) and with five rounds to go sit 13 points behind fourth-placed Gold Coast Knights.
United technical director Craig Midgley, though, said he was “over the moon” to secure Rees and Osman for 2020.
“From a club perspective, it’s great news for all of us,” he said.
“Their philosophies and beliefs align with our club’s vision. So we’re delighted to have Kristian and Matt back on board.”
Rees said he was excited to extend his tenure with the club into a second season.
“From the football side of things we’re on the same page, developing footballers and bringing through young players,” he said.
“We’ve had a great opportunity to do that this year. It’s good for the young boys and puts the club in good stead moving in to next season.”
Rees said he was also buoyed knowing he would have former United A-League teammate Osman alongside him again next season.
“I know him well as a person from the A-League days,” he said.
“His attention to detail is fantastic and I feel like he compliments what I do.
“I know we’re well placed to build on that and progress next season.”
Osman was similarly excited to continue his role developing United’s emerging talent. “I think the future is promising,” he said.
“I think we can mould this team in to a great team and create further opportunities for them along the way.”
United will tonight be out to make amends for 3-2 loss to Redlands last Friday night against the Pride who currently sit 13th on the ladder.
In other NPL action, the Knights tonight take on Eastern Suburbs at the Croatian Sports Centre (6.30pm).
The Knights are fresh off a 5-0 friendly loss to A-League side the Western Sydney Wanderers which saw a number of the club’s under-20s play.
In the NPL Women’s competition, United have a bye.