Newcastle Jets defender Kew Jaliens believes the Jets have had a good preparation in the lead up to Saturday’s F3 Derby.
Hunter Ports Newcastle Jets defender Kew Jaliens believes the Jets have had a good preparation in the lead up to Saturday’s F3 Derby clash with the Central Coast Mariners at Bluetongue Stadium.
The former Dutch international said that while the Jets did not need any added motivation to return to winners- circle on Saturday, the fact they are facing their fiercest rivals would give the contest added spice.
“It doesn-t matter who the opponent is, we just want to fight again and show we can still win and beat teams,” Jaliens said.
“It-s a good thing it-s a derby though, because that always gives extra motivation and extra power to the players, so in that sense it-s a good thing,”
Jaliens said the change of head coach earlier in their week had not affected the Jets- preparation for the clash too drastically, with the players remaining focused on the job at hand.
“As a player that-s the only thing you can do,” Jaliens said.
“You can-t let your emotions get in the way for a game because you have to perform.
“I-ve been in this situation sometimes, also last year in Poland, so I know what the feeling is like.
“The important thing for the team is to get up, stand up and focus on the game and get the three points.”
Jaliens said interim head coach Clayton Zane had settled quickly into his new role since taking the reins from Gary van Egmond earlier in the week, with the focus being set squarely on the clash with the Mariners on Saturday.
“Clayton is professional as well and he-s kept the focus this week on the team, rather than anything else,” Jaliens said.
“We-ve had some meetings about tactics and we-ve played 11 against 11 in training, so we know what we have to do.
“We have to be good in possession. They-re very physical so if you get into a battle against them, it will be a tough fight.
“We have to be good at keeping the ball, playing the ball and dictating the game, not getting in the physical one against one fight with them.”
