Melbourne Victory captain Carl Valeri was left proud of his team despite its penalty shootout loss to Sydney FC in the Hyundai A-League Grand Final.
Victory suffered a heartbreaking 4-2 shootout loss to Sydney at Allianz Stadium on Sunday after the decider finished locked at 1-1.
Valeri was nonetheless proud of Victory after falling short following a grueling effort in Sydney.
“A special thanks to the boys. This is where we wanted to be all season. Unfortunately, we’re receiving the second medal to Sydney, but we’ve worked hard and I’m very proud of what we’ve done,” he said during the post-match presentation.
“Kevin (Muscat, head coach) and the staff, they’ve been amazing all year and it’s always disappointing to finish on penalties but that’s the way it goes.
“Our chairman and board of directors, without their continued support we wouldn’t be anywhere. We’ve got a lot of thanks to give to them. They provide us with lots of things that a lot of clubs don’t have so we’re very lucky.”
Valeri also reserved praise for Victory’s fans, who travelled in huge numbers and provided incredible support in the club’s first away Grand Final.
“Lastly, to our special fans, our members who come see us every week and create a fantastic atmosphere, we thank you from the bottom of our heart. Thank you,” he said.
