Young gun Keanu Baccus hailed Western Sydney Wanderers’ ability to bounce back from last week’s Sydney Derby drubbing after a crucial win over a nine-man Central Coast Mariners on Saturday night.
The Wanderers snapped an eight-game winless streak – and handed new boss Josep Gombau his first victory – with a well-deserved but at times controversial 2-0 triumph in Gosford.
Just a week after suffering the indignity of a 5-0 loss to rivals Sydney FC, the Wanderers responded emphatically thanks to goals from Brendon Santalab and Alvaro Cejudo.
And the 19-year-old – staring in midfield ahead of older brother Kearyn – put in a man-of-the-match display for the visitors.
“I’m very proud of the boys,” a delighted Baccus told Fox Sports.
“We had a good week at training, it was very tough. We’re all putting in at training, we’re fighting for a spot. I’m just very proud to get a win today.
“I feel like I’m doing alright,” he added of his personal performance.
“I’ve got to keep going game-by-game and just help the team get a win if I can.
“Obviously last week wasn’t a good result but it’s good to bounce back this week.”
While the Wanderers were worthy winners, much of the focus centred around the VAR, which saw yellow cards to Wout Brama and Jake McGing overturned into straight reds.
The decision infuriated Mariners boss Paul Okon but Baccus was philosophical.
“We’re here to play football. Whatever happens, happens…if it’s for us or against,” the teenager said.
“Tonight it was for us so we got a bit lucky. But we keep playing good football and hopefully keep winning.”
The Wanderers head back up the M1 next Friday night for a clash against Newcastle Jets.
This article was originally published at: www.a-league.com.au/news/teenager-baccus-proud-wanderers-response-derby-drubbing
