It’s a quick turnaround for the Jets to start 2019, with back-to-back games inside three days as they take on Brisbane.
They’ll again enjoy the comforts of home, welcoming the Roar to Newcastle for the second time already this season.
PRESSER: Merrick talks Round 11
We’ve taken a look at what you need to know before heading to the ground to catch some mid-week football at McDonald Jones Stadium.
New Year, new me
With Christmas done and dusted, Boxing Day passing us by we’re finally into 2019! The first half of this campaign hasn’t quite gone to plan for Ernie Merrick’s side with a number of dominant displays going unrewarded.
With a New Year comes the opportunity to turn a page, so expect to see a fired up Jets outfit take the field on Wednesday night as they push onto a big few months ahead.
Beware the wounded lion
The Roar arrive to the Hunter a different outfit from the one that visited just a few weeks ago, after John Aloisi resignation as Head Coach.
In the midst of a lean period on the pitch, Ernie Merrick has made it clear his side won’t be taking their opposition lightly as they look to push into the league’s top six.
Shot-stopping sub
Glen Moss has been ruled out on Wednesday night and after receiving a nasty gash above his right knee.
As Moss was being stitched up – receiving 12 in total – Lewis Italiano made his debut for the Club in the second half.
He’ll start against the Roar, while NYL ‘keeper, Noah James will join the bench.
Squad rotation
Ernie Merrick is pleased to report a clean bill of health for his squad, with a full complement of players to pick from leading into a busy period.
The Jets have a jam packed January, plus Asian Champions League (ACL) Playoffs in February and will need all hands on deck with the heavy schedule.
Joe Champness is very close to a return and Merrick has indicated he will be carefully managing player workloads to get the most both in the league and in the ACL.
Packing our bags
We’ve been grounded in December having only travelled away to Central Coast, but January will see the Jets on the road with two trips to Melbourne, one to Sydney and another to Perth.
It’s a tough schedule that will prove important to the Club’s finals push, as they take on the competition’s top teams in their own backyard.
