The final against Malaysia had another interesting subtext with Aussie coach Brad Maloney pitted against Young Socceroo boss Gary Van Egmond.

The Adelaide United rising star said it was a tough tournament overall, with games in the Vietnamese heat coming thick and fast.

“With matches then recovery then another game every two days it was draining.

“Just one day off in between games, I’ve learned from previous national team trips how to use them wisely with massage and recovery.

“A lot of players hadn’t actually represented the country before, and I hadn’t met many of the boys.

“But to have a team gel so quickly, and want to fight for each other was really pleasing.

“But after the final, a lot of the boys are very physically and mentally drained and tired.”

Brook, along with Al Hassan Toure, is one of a clutch of young Reds coming through at Hindmarsh this A-League season.

It’s an exciting time for the squad under new Dutch coach Gertjan Verbeek.

And after debuting in the Asian Champions League two years ago (“that was a night I’ll remember forever, debuting for my home club”), Brook has his hopes set on a breakthrough season with the Reds.

“This year I’m looking forward to trying to get into the first team.”