Gary van Egmond discusses last weekend’s loss and his hopes for the team to bring 3-points back from Wellington tonight.
The loss at home to Sydney FC was certainly a disappointing one, especially considering we had the lead going into half time, we were on the front foot and we were expecting a different outcome.
The boys showed signs in the first half of the game, those of which the coaching staff and I are shaping them to be. Most of the characteristics that I expect in my players were displayed in this game within the 45mins of the first half – control, determination and the ability to read the play.
However, in the second half of the game we just stopped playing. Sydney then capitalized on this and ran away with the victory. It-s evident we need to be playing reactive football in order to gain the three points, and if we keep running out of legs, it won-t happen.
I think it-s slightly unfair that the boys have been targeted in the media for having a lack of commitment, as this is not the case at all. We just need to play to our strengths and do what we do best.
A few of the players in Saturday night-s match against Sydney FC lost discipline and were caught off guard, allowing Sydney to score, twice.
Not only is it a tough trip to Wellington to face the Phoenix, we also will be taking to the field without our captain Jobe Wheelhouse – having regrettably been sent off in the latter stages of Saturday-s game.
His sideline is not desired but it does create opportunities for some of the others players to fill his spot. I am interested to see how the boys play without him and I have every confidence that they will deliver.
Our Jets will be approaching this weekend-s match against Wellington Phoenix like any other – creating as many goal scoring opportunities as possible and converting them. From week to week that has been our game plan and we anticipate on sticking to it.
We are prepared for a tough and physical match against the Phoenix. They are a very professional side and are not easily beaten at home. Having recently demolished ladder board leaders Brisbane Roar, we will be in for a hard battle.
The team is sitting well in terms of fitness. Nikolai Topor-Stanley will return to the field this weekend after making a full recovery from a hamstring injury.
We are looking forward to returning home to celebrate this festive season with our first away game win.
Gary
