Newcastle Jets winger David Carney says he is at the peak of his fitness and focused solely on helping the Jets kick-start their 2014/15 Hyundai A-League campaign against Central Coast Mariners on Sunday.
The former Socceroo played a starring role for the Jets last Saturday afternoon, setting up Marcos Flores’ goal in Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with the Western Sydney Wanderers.
Carney believes his improved fitness and conditioning has been a big factor in his performances of late.
“I’m at a point now where I’m not really thinking about my fitness, which is good,” Carney said.
“If I can carry on at this level and play well I’m only going to benefit the team and be a big part of this season.”
The former Socceroo joined the Jets late in the 2013/14 season from Major League Soccer outfit New York Red Bulls.
“When I joined the Jets last season I didn’t have a pre-season and went straight into the deep end playing,” Carney said.
“But this year I’ve been able to trim down a bit and I’ve had a hard pre-season so I’m feeling good.
“If I can keep around this weight and focus more on getting a bit sharper hopefully I can have a good season.”
The Jets are stilling looking for their first victory of the season and Carney says the team will be focused on the giving the fans their first three point haul against the Central Coast Mariners on Sunday afternoon.
“We’re having a bit of a hard time at the minute and we really need that first win,” Carney said.
“We need all the support the fans can give us and with it being an F3 Derby, it is a good game for them to come and watch.”
Carney said he can understand why the fans and supporters have been disappointed in their recent performances, particularly in their last home game against the Brisbane Roar.
“The fans booed in the Roar match more because of the performance and the way we were playing, rather than the result,” Carney said.
“What I’ve seen from Newcastle supporters is they just like the players to give everything and be positive with the ball.
“We played negative football in that match and we understand that, and we’ll be trying to make amends for that on Sunday.”
Newcastle Jets v Central Coast Mariners
Sunday, November 30
Hunter Stadium
Kick-off 5pm
