Melbourne Heart defender Patrick Kisnorbo carries the ball away from Adelaide's Michael Zullo during Friday's trial match.
COACH John Aloisi isn’t bothered despite Melbourne Heart registering another loss on Friday, continuing a curious trend in which the club has never won a pre-season game in four years.
And Heart are confident defender Patrick Gerhardt will be cleared for the Round 1 derby against Melbourne Victory despite hobbling off after landing awkwardly on his ankle in the 2-1 loss to Adelaide United.
Adelaide were relieved to have Soccceroo Michael Zullo cleared of serious injury after he limped off clutching his knee. United believes he will be fit for the Round 1 trip to Perth with scans confirming a minor strain.
Gerhardt played alongside Patrick Kisnorbo in central defence but tomorrow Dutchman Rob Wielaerdt returns to training as he attempts to be fit for the October 12 clash at Etihad Stadium.
And midfielder Nick Kalmar returns to the track after recovering from a calf injury.
Harry Kewell has been declared fit for the derby although Michael Mifsud, who was also rested, will be away on Maltese international duty.
David Williams’ second half goal proved a consolation after classy Argentine Marcelo Carrusca scored a first half brace, including a delightful curling striker from long range.
"No emphasis at all (on results). Everyone wants to win pre-season games but there’s no three points up for grabs. It’s mainly getting games into players legs and giving fringe players an opportunity against a top side like Adelaide, " Aloisi said.
"Pre-season is about making sure the players get ready for the season and trying a few different things.
"We’ll have five or six coming back into the squad very soon and we’ll be ready round one.
"We’re dangerous going forward, we can keep the ball a lot better but that will be different when we’ve got the full squad in."
With left-back Cassio already sidelined Zullo’s likely availability is a relief but Adelaide coach Josep Gombau has issues in attack.
He is hoping to sign striker Brent McGrath on a short-term contract with Bruce Djite (ankle) to miss the first month of the season and Jeronimo (shoulder) in doubt.
"We need a striker because are unlucky in this position with injuries. I like what Brent did but it’s something we need to discuss because it’s not just sporting it’s also money, " Gombau said.
"I am satisfied with the team, but for us is important that we arrive on 13 October in good condition but I’m a little bit worried about the injuries."
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