Two second half goals gave Adelaide Blue Eagles a 2-0 win against Adelaide Comets in Round 22 of the South Australia Premier League at Santos Stadium on Saturday.
The strikes from Kym Harris and Yvan Boyokino came in a devastating 12-minute spell to push Blue Eagles up to third spot.
Blue Eagles defender Chris Annicchiarico says the half-time talk helped them to victory.
“It was a tough game. We went in level at the break, but started the second half well and got the goals,” he said.
“We were told to keep calm, bide our time and take the chances when they come.
“The last few months have gone well for us. We are building towards the finals, but our main focus is on continuing to collect points.”
Comets Coach Jim Karatzas said his side started the second half in the wrong manner.
“It was a tight game, they were good at pressing us. We held our ground, then they got the goals and we had to come out,” he said.
We had chances, but unfortunately couldn’t take them. The boys tried hard, the work-rate was fantastic.
“After the break we came out to hold rather than attack. We didn’t play with the intensity we should have.”
Sheku Saccoh had Blue Eagles best chance of the first half, latching on to Harris cut-back from a corner, but his effort was cleared off the line by George Aslanidis.
Matthew Bouzalas’ shot deflected off a Blue Eagles leg and nearly looped in over Gino De Lucia, who was alert to the danger.
The visitors opened the scoring in the 49th minute when Harris cut inside on his left foot and drilled a shot past Lucas Andreucci in the Comets goal.
Blue Eagles confirmed their dominance in the 57th minute when Boyokino slotted in the second goal from a tight angle.
Comets may have dragged themselves back into the contest, but Davide Zerillo was denied by De Lucia’s outstretched arm, before Aslanidis’ angled drive went the wrong side of the post.
Boyokino’s driven cross was well hit by Harris, who was unfortunate to see it strike the woodwork with 17 minutes remaining.