Corica speaks on recent officiating and the trip to Sydney for the last game of the season before Finals.
Steve Corica heads to his old stomping ground on Sunday in need of a result after failing to secure 2nd place and a bye to the semi-final following Auckland’s home defeat to Central Coast.
Corica was forced to watch the defeat from the stands at Go Media after seeing red late on in the previous fixture against Melbourne Victory
He was once again left frustrated by the officiating in Sunday’s home clash, with a first-half VAR review being the main point of contention.
“I think it’s quite clear, it should have been a red card – he stood on him on purpose,” Says Corica.
“There’s a reason why they (VAR) called the referee over, because they thought it was a red card as well.”
The incident occurred in the 13th minute, as Central Coast Defender James Donachie appeared to intentionally stomp on the back of Auckland’s Sam Cosgrove.
After VAR review, the incident was deemed as ‘reckless’ but not intentional by referee Jonathan Barreiro, who issued a yellow card to Donachie.
Cosgrove was asked about the challenge, with the striker being left confused by the decision.
“The fact that he’s given him a yellow card, there’s no in-between. It’s either an intentional stamp or he’s done it by accident.” Says Cosgrove.
“It’s red card or nothing.”
Corica was asked if the team was getting too hung up on refereeing decisions, with the head coach admitting that the team needed to move on.
“I think we can get a little carried away (with the refereeing) and we’ve just got to get on with the game,” Says Corica.
“That’s going to be my message from now on.”
With all to play for in the race for second place, Corica was asked about the team’s recent form.
“There’s always going to be periods in seasons that don’t go our way, January comes to mind, and definitely as of late.
“For me, it’s more exciting to see how we respond once we’re in finals, when it’s do or die.”
Corica kept the spotlight on the final game of the regular season, highlighting that the trip to Sydney will be a big test.
“Sydney is obviously a tough team to play. New coach, (three) clean sheets in the last (three) games. So it’ll be a tough game.”
There were a few positive injury updates with Francis de Vries, Jake Brimmer, and Nando Pijnaker all getting back on the grass at this morning’s training.
Corica gave updates on the three after training.
“Francis may be (back) for the second game of the semi-final, Nando could be back next week. (Brimmer) will probably be around that second leg of the semi-final as well.”
Corica added that being able to get the bye to the semi-finals will be a bonus in getting the squad back to full strength
“It will be (a huge bonus). Especially the situation we’re in with injuries, it helps us prepare and settle down after the season – and just prepare for the semi-final.”
