What they said A-League managers react to the Elimination Finals

Auckland FC 1-1 Melbourne City (6-5 pen)

Steve Corica (Auckland FC):

Penalty shootouts can swing in any direction just like always. We have had good fortune with them recently. There were some excellent penalties taken even the missed one where Michael (Woud) pulled off a superb save. The focus this week is on recovery to ensure the players are prepared for the match on Saturday.

Melbourne City is a challenging side that is always difficult to face. They have high quality players and many with experience. To emerge victorious makes us very happy. Progressing was the goal for today even if it meant going the full distance which was a bit unfortunate to let in a goal so close to the end. We did not handle the defence well enough and allowing that was regrettable.

If we had cleared that one header the match would have ended and we would have avoided an extra 30 minutes of effort. But that is not how it turned out. I told the team after the initial 90 minutes that our tough training sessions on fitness are for moments like this to help us prevail after 120 minutes.

We were confident of a win throughout. The squad is brimming with belief. They understand their tasks each week. This match was win or go home. For the coming week we do not need to secure it right away though we would prefer to.

(Marcus) Younis poses their main danger right now and I felt (Callan Elliot) managed him effectively. He grew fatigued near the finish and began cramping so we brought on Luka Vicelich for some security. Jake Girdwood-Reich also performed brilliantly in defence this evening.

Aurelio Vidmar (Melbourne City):

After taking the match to such length it is tough to accept defeat. Penalties turn into a gamble but I am truly proud of our performance this evening. We entered with strong confidence despite the previous weeks setback and our drive determination and guidance on the field were top notch. It was a hard fought encounter from both teams though I believe we held a small advantage. We might have gained more after the first 90 minutes.

We created sufficient opportunities to claim victory and perhaps that sums up our campaign with not enough goals scored. That is an issue to examine. Regarding our effort and energy over the full 120 minutes it was outstanding.

We began sharply in the opening 15 to 20 minutes establishing the pace and continued pressing. Conceding from a free kick just before the break was unfortunate but the changing room retained strong optimism at the interval. I was sure we could score at least once maybe twice.

This season presented many challenges without doubt. Yet I am immensely proud of our accomplishments. Reaching the Round of 16 in the Champions League Elite was a milestone for the club a real journey. Balancing that with A-League commitments after those international fixtures and travel tested us particularly when pushing for a top six spot. Our final seven or eight weeks were superb so much to consider ahead.

Exiting finals now prompts thoughts on various changes and planning for the next campaign. We will take time to review over the coming weeks and decide our direction.

Melbourne Victory 0-1 Sydney FC

Arthur Diles (Melbourne Victory):

I do not believe the superior side prevailed. Such is football outcomes do not always favour the better team. We outperformed them this evening without taking anything away from (Sydney). We controlled the game. Their keeper (Devenish-Meares) earned match of the match honours by keeping them afloat. We lacked precision inside the penalty area ultimately with one error proving costly. As I have noted finals are decided by the side committing fewest errors and dominating both ends. That is where we came up short.

Only one official calls the shots and I feel he (Lachlan Keevers) erred on both counts. It is frustrating. In contests like this the referee should avoid sparking debate. We have never triumphed in a game he has overseen (Editors note Victory secured three wins one under Diles management).

Every match with him involves VAR disputes. Not his doing but he could improve on tonight. Ultimately that defines our evening and season. It stings. We battled to the finish gave our all and missed our opportunities.

He has made it resemble WWE rather than football. He permits rough tackles like in rugby or AFL then penalises minor touches. There is no uniformity. For a major fixture you expect elite officials. They chose him deeming him suitable. I disagree but enough on the referee. The match transcends one person. It centres on players delivering their utmost. He tried yet fell below standard.

Overall we must take pride in the campaign as not all reach playoffs. I felt we exited prematurely but cannot criticise my squad. From the start until now they committed fully. We produced memorable football and stunning strikes. Many games stood out as highlights of the season.

Patrick Kisnorbo (Sydney FC):

The opening half disappointed me in how we executed my plan. Over the full 90 minutes the team adapted to their pressure finding alternative approaches. Our spirit effort and unity shone through this night.

Goals often stem from errors or moments of brilliance. We seized our opening and Patty (Wood) excelled all week like the rest. We held firm in tough spots displaying great toughness which pleases me.

I met old colleagues before and after who I appreciate. I thank (Victory) for the chance they provided and value coaching these players now. When I joined Sydney Roddy Miranda messaged congratulations and mused on facing each other in finals. Who knew it would occur? He is an exceptional captain leader and individual.

Resilience positivity and diligence are qualities I emphasise swiftly added. They demand no special skill just a shift in attitude. Tonight should instill that confidence.

(We must improve on) Every aspect. Football coaching thrives on constant progress. We get another shot starting tomorrow.