Newcastle Jets head coach Phil Stubbins has put the Central Coast Mariners on notice for this Sunday’s F3 Derby claiming his side is seeking all three points at Hunter Stadium.
Stubbins said his side is looking to build on their resilient performance away from home last weekend, claiming that revenge for their defeat at the hands of the Mariners earlier in the season would be the best way to do this.
“It’s a new game, it’s a derby, the form sort of goes out the window with that,” said Stubbins.
“In the first game we probably shared a good period of the match in terms of possession and everything else, and we had our opportunities to win the game but it wasn’t to be.
“So I think revenge is a nice word to use and what better place to do it then at Hunter Stadium in front of our own supporters…so we’re certainly ready for the Central Coast and looking for the three points.”
These comments come after Central Coast Mariners captain, John Hutchinson was quoted as saying this week that the “Mariners are a better club and will always be a better club” than their F3 counterparts, words Stubbins believes will ignite the rivalry this Sunday.
“The Newcastle Jets have a passionate supporter base with 10,000 members…but for people to show disrespect in that way it’s obviously going to be a bit of a pep up for our boys,” Stubbins said.
“He’s obviously come up with a statement there that will ignite things and we look forward to the challenge now.
“It would be nice to put up a performance there and get the three points, and show people that we are a big club, and we are a serious club, and we’re heading in the right direction.”
To add to this war of words, Stubbins has revealed that midfielder, Marcos Flores will start against his former club.
“Look I hope it is personal, and I hope we get a performance from Marcos that is a very deep one from within and that’s reflective in how he goes about taking to tasks and there’s a real intensity from him,” Stubbins said.
“He’ll back up again and he’ll start, I’ve got no problem in mentioning that.”
Stubbins’ side will also be bolstered with the return of Scott Neville after he was omitted from the starting XI just before Saturday’s match against the Western Sydney Wanderers.
Although Stubbins recognises Newcastle’s need for a full team performance if they are going to get their first win of the season over their F3 rivals.
“It’s a team game and we all have to provide a strong service whether you’re on the bench or you’re playing, we all need to be as one and I think the good thing that has come out of last week is we’re all united and we’re looking forward to it now.”
