It’s a trip west for Ernie Merrick’s side in Round 25 of the Hyundai A-League, as they look to spoil Perth’s Premiership ambitions at HBF Park.
A win for the league leaders on Sunday will secure the Premiers Plate, but the Jets have other ideas as they look to finish their campaign on a high.
A-LEAGUE: The squad heading west
Ben Kantarovski spoke with media earlier this week and said the Club’s remaining games were about building a platform for next season.
“It’s not easy to be where we are, but we want to keep building,” he said.
“That’s what we’ve been trying to do all season. We just haven’t had the results go our way, and we haven’t scored as many goals as we would have liked to.
“Now it’s about taking the positives out of this season and keep building for the next one.”
He’ll be tasked with taking on Diego Castro and Neil Kilkenny in the middle of the park, his midfield compatriot; Steven Ugarkovic was excited about the challenge ahead.
“Can we spoil the party, go over there, make it tough for them and get the three points? I see it as a good experience, a tough experience, going against the best team in the league.
“I don’t think the boys are going to shy away from that challenge, so it will a good test for everyone, physically, and more mentally as well.”
Ernie Merrick has indicated that Ronald Vargas will be a likely inclusion off the bench, after incurring an ankle injury last week against the Wanderers.
The Venezuelan will offer plenty of creativity and experience off the bench, something Merrick will no doubt lean on. He’ll complement the likes of Kaine Sheppard and Angus Thurgate who offer plenty of attacking options.
It’s otherwise a near clean bill of health for the Jets, with only Jason Hoffman (ankle) unavailable for selection.
The Jets take on Perth Glory at HBF Park on Sunday 14 April at 7pm (AEDT).
